![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
azuriteI haven't done review replies in a while, and you might think that because I have the ability to use FFnet's new Review Reply option, I would take advantage of it. However, the thing with the FFnet Review Reply is that they are private, not posted anywhere on the site. With these, not only can you see which reviews I took special notice of, but which ones asked pertinent enough questions for me to answer. As always, keep your eyes peeled for interesting information or secret spoilers!
Note: I do not post all reviews that I receive here; only the ones that I feel I should reply to. For all reviews, I do NOT edit them for content/spelling/etc. in any way.
For lengthier reviews, I will insert my commentary where appropriate. The actual review will resume in italicized text.
If more reviews come in for this (or any older) chapter(s), then I will respond to them at the BOTTOM of this page, and indicate a “last updated” section here at the TOP. If there is no LAST UPDATED area, that means this post has not changed since the original post date.
RyuSenshi-DragonHawk -- FINALLY an update! I was getting worried there. In all honesty I love this story, and the chapter came at the right time. I don't like waiting, but I will even if it's another year
I hope it doesn't take me another year! I know I'm slow with updates, but that's life for you. And when I do have time to work on WDKY, the inspiration just isn't there, and the scenes I need to get written come out (in my opinion) badly. But that's why I've started to post my scenes/rough drafts here on LJ (if you have an account, drop me a message and I'll friend you so you can see them!) for commentary and criticism, so the chapters are the best they can be before I put them all together and post them Web-wide!
Thanks for your review; I hope you keep reading and enjoying the fic!
ayame11midori -- wow! I was kinda worried that you wouldn't update after such a long agonizing time! haha. just hope that Seto and Téa would talk again in the next chapter, I miss reading their sweet moments ^^
*shifty eyes* >_> Should I say something? Should I risk spoiling? In any case, this chapter is meant to set up the future arc, and I suppose it shouldn't come as a surprise that Téa and Kaiba aren't on the best of terms at the moment. Or perhaps I can clarify without much spoilerage: Téa's not too happy with Kaiba right now, but Kaiba probably doesn't know any better. :P I think real-life relationships are a bit see-saw like that, and finding the balance, when those "sweet moments" can happen, is a difficult thing to achieve. But that doesn't mean it won't happen again-- this is, after all, an Azureshipping story! In any case, thanks for your review!
Sipherous -- You know after a third time I'm making this short (yes this is my third time writing this reveiw sad ain't it)
1. I'm sorry for not reveiw this a year ago, I'm doing it now this inspried
me to start my own Seto/Anzu-Tea fic after careful research of rehashed
storylines.
Really? I'm glad to hear it inspired a fic! I'll have to check it out-- which one (if you have more than one Yu-Gi-Oh! fic) is it? The pairing can always use more writers for it!
I am a bit ashamed to admit that, when WDKY first came out, the idea of Anzu/Téa losing her parents and somehow ending up in Kaiba's employ was a bit trite, if not downright clichéd. I'd like to think I twisted that cliché a bit, and will continue to do so. The last thing I'd want is for WDKY to be (too) predictable.
2. I love your development, charaters and story arcs although I felt you kind
of went lazy when you copied the Yu-Gi-Oh! Pyramid of Light Arc from the Movie
but other than that wicked adaptation.
My treatment of the movie has people in several different camps. I wasn't trying to be unoriginal or lazy, I just thought that the plotline of the movie fit really well into the existing framework of what I had planned for WDKY, past and future chapters. I didn't want to do a partial adaptation of the movie, because I wanted to explore the possibilities of everything everyone saw in the movie having a COMPLETELY different motivation behind them. Or, in several cases, a different perspective. Believe me, the movie-adaptation chapters ARE critical to the story as a whole, so please don't dismiss them or skim them and think you know all there is to know from watching the movies! I guarantee you'll miss out if you do!
3. I may have guessed Bakura's plans but the only proof I have is 'Engine of
Destruction' Line so I'll leave my hypothesis of your mind slightly off till
later.
*grin* I totally did that on purpose and I'm not ashamed in the least bit. Glad you caught it.
4.Overall I'm happy you finally got this out in the interest of many your
story ranks one of the best I've read (and I've read them all sadly jsut
haven't hreveiwed them all) and I hope you continue to work with this in the
future.
Sipherous
Thank you for taking the time to review, and I hope you continue to read and enjoy the fic!
ANGELforSHOW -- Azurite -
I've read this story since I was in 7th grade, back when the latest chapter had been chapter 15, the Christmas chapter. And y'know what? I'm in 10th grade now, and I still love it, three years and ten chapters later.
I'm kind of laughing out of shock, the fact that it's been that long. I also feel kind of old. O_o
I dropped YGO when I was 10 years old -- I found this fic when I was 12, intrigued because I thought YGO characters had such fic potential. I'm known for having a notoriously short attention span. Thank you so much for being able to keep my interest. (:
Thank you! I'm glad I could, and I hope I continue to, with future chapters!
There's just something about the plot here, unraveling one mystery from another, how you manage to show the strains of real life in Tea and Seto's relationship, the emotion that every character positively radiates, and the adorable breaks between the action that draws everyone in.
You've molded this story from the initial charm of solemn Kaiba taking in the vividly bright Tea after an 'accident', to building a wildly complicated relationship, each aspect portraying the real world.
And you've done a ** awesome job. :]
I look forward to the next update -- whether it's in two days or five years,
be assured that I will be reading it. :D
Again, thank you! I'm totally bowled over by your super-kind praise, and I can only hope you keep reading and enjoying the story. I do apologize for being so sporadic with my updates, but that is real life-- but I refuse to quit on WDKY! I want to see it through: all 36 chapters of this first story, and all "however-many-chapters" of the second and third. Hope to keep you reading (even after we've BOTH graduated college)!
UniChild -- oh my God...alrighty...uh...
Azurite...I sincerly apologize in advance for the following obnoxious
fangirl-ness I'm about to unleash, but am having a hard time concealing...
...
AH!
FRICKEN GAH! *glomps and clings to you while crying happy tears*
You UPDATED, omg I love you...!
*cough*
Now I shall try to calm myself. *deep breath*
*big sigh* Anyway...I was on the phone with my bf when I saw the update for
this in my inbox.
I think he went partially deaf...'cause I literally screamed. I was/am so
thrilled to see this update, like you don't even realize.
Don't freak, but this is my FAVORITE fan fiction EVER. Not just of yugioh, or
setoxanzu...but...literally of all time.
THANK YOU SO MUCH. No, really. Praise like that really just gets me in the bottom of my heart, and it makes me want to keep writing and hopefully keep getting better. I'd like to think I don't write for praise's sake, but I do write because I enjoy sharing my ideas with other people, and seeing how my storytelling can make them feel or think. If I've accomplished that, then I feel on top of the world!
Your way of pulling the reader right into your story with effective imagery,
clever yet realistic plot twists, and believable characters is amazing.
And I absolutely ADORE the sense humor you add. It reminds me of how I act
around my best friend and it's just heartwarming in a way.
You had me rolling with laughter especially with the "obelisk" swimming
trunks spin.
Good God, I was like "That's from her 'The Joke's On You' fic!!" and my bf
actually read that one so we both had a good laugh over it.
TJOY came before WDKY in terms of ideas, but I could never bring myself to finish writing it because what I started out with -humor of the dirty-minded variety- ended up becoming overly dramatic and suspenseful-- too much like what I had planned for WDKY, in other words. TJOY is still lingering in cyberspace for that very reason. I'd like to get at least WDKY (not necessarily the other 2 stories in that universe) done before I attempt TJOY again, mainly so I can "get the drama out of my system," so to speak. But I can't let those Obelisk jokes die. They're just TOO GOOD.
Ugh...if I had more time, I'd so illustrate some scenes from your fic. I know
for sure I'll probably be doing some more fanart for you sometime. T.T It's
just...freaking irrestistable...
Please, please, pretty please? If I summon Sailor Pluto to play with the Time-Space stream, will you? I'd love more fanart for WDKY, especially of the color-variety. I'd try myself; heck knows I've got countless ideas for it, but I don't think my drawing style compares to yours, Lin's, Kazumi Akai's, Guardian Kysra's, Mamono's... etc. etc. We have so many "dual" talented artists in this fandom-- we're so lucky! I'm also lucky to call so many of them friends. :) *sniff*
All of the issues that keep coming up in the fic story-wise, though, may
become a bit...much...if they don't stop soon. I mean...things just won't stop
happening. o.O Now what's this "presence older than the millenium items", hm?
:3 Here we go again. But I have faith that you can pull it off alright.
Man...ok. I'm done (not really but I'm forcing myself to stop). It's bed
time.
EXCELLENT chapter, Azurite, I love it. Your twists are to die for. ^^ And
good luck with future chapters!
~Uni
THANK YOU so much for your kind review! I really super-duper appreciate it. But don't worry, the plots and subplots shouldn't be too confusing. As we wind down, things should all start connecting and making sense again... at least, I hope they do. In any case, check this LJ for advance snippets of scenes (rough drafts), and let me know if I'm failing to make sense! Again, thank you, and I hope you continue to read and enjoy!
unknown reviewer -- well well well...haven't seen you in a while. I have to admit you had me worried for a while, I was afraid it might have been the end of things.
Fortunatly I just couldn't let such an awesome story slip out of my mind and I continued to check up on things every now and then. It was only recently that I was able to see your LiveJournal and learn that you were indeed still working on the story. I remember how I once said that you could wait and year and I would still consider your updates worthwhile...well, I wasn't exactly expecting you to hold me to that, but regardless, I must say it was still a great update.
Aw, heck no! If I ever stop updating this story (as in, more than a year and a half goes by, judging by my past record), I've either kicked the bucket or have had a REALLY bad strain of luck (writer's block + real life SUCKING MAJORLY). Since that has yet to actually happen (and I hope it never will), I'm working on it in bits and pieces, whenever I can, and whenever I have the inspiration. For a fic that has the entire plot mapped out, pretty much the only difficult thing is finding the right words to "proseify" the ideas into something readable.
as for the chapter, a very interesting peice to say the least. I noticed some pseudo-confirmation of Tea's connection to the Blue Eyes (engine of destruction anyone?), the only question in my mind is now what you plan to do with Kisara and that whole story. I am very glad to see Bakura making his presence known more, it was nice seeing him quietly watching things from the shadows, but its just to much fun seeing him toy with people face to face.
I think out of all the characters, Bakura's the hardest for me to write. Even in the anime, he was pretty in the dark-- we knew he wanted revenge against the Pharaoh, we knew he wanted the Millennium Items at all costs, but why? I think there really had to be a good reason why Takahashi chose Bakura to be the penultimate villain of the final arc of Yu-Gi-Oh!, and I kind of want to explore that "feeling" Bakura gives off. I'm not saying he's a villain, per se... if anything, he's more of an anti-hero in WDKY, the way Seto was in the anime. But what makes him difficult to write isn't his "status" or "archetype," it's just his personality. I don't WANT him to be easy to figure out, or predictable. He's not like that in canon, so why should he be in WDKY?
Again, considering how bakura spoke of something more ancient then themselves, I can only picture Dartz. If I'm right, I can't wait to see what you do with that arc. It wasn't exactly my favorite in the anime but with your amazing ability to weave your own plotlines into the main story, it should be something truely amazing.
I hope so, too! But I can't say any more than that. :P
As for the little calendar subplot, lol, everything in that town seems to revolve around this card game doesn't it. I'm sorry, but I just found it hilarious when they brought up a duelists calendar. Joking aside though, the dramatic events that came during the shoot and after were very well done. You are a true wonder when it comes to showing emotion, through thoughts, dialog, and actions. I can honestly think of very few actual published novels where I have seen characters as human and full of emotion as your story right here. I'm honestly having trouble putting into words just how awe-inspiring it is. You have a gift, there is no denying that.
*bows* Thank you very kindly for your high praise! With WDKY, I try to remember that, since canon revolved around Duel Monsters, I have to include it. If I tried to make it too real-life, then it would take away a lot of the motivation the characters have. Like, seriously, why is a card game determining the fate of the free world? Why are paper cards rare and sought over enough to warrant law-breaking? Why is there such a long-standing rivalry between Seto Kaiba and Yugi Moto? Duel Monsters is the crux of the series, so in a way, it's a major component of WDKY, too, even if there's not a ton of duels, or if emphasis is constantly placed on what duels there are. Plus, if in other anime, the focus can be on Pokémon or Sailor Senshi or whatnot, why not card games in this series? Of course, there are going to be some people who don't give two Kuribohs about the game itself, but more about the players-- and people are like that in real life, with all number of things.
Moving on to Seto and Tea, I think we may have just reached some kind of breakthough, though getting there caused more than enough drama. Seto actually coming to terms with his own shortcomings and even more surprisingly admiting them to another person is a huge step for him. Tea however still seems to be having some issues, if she doesn't get her own trust issues taken care of this thing with Bakura is going to bite her in the **.
Oooh, yes. And thank you for recognizing it, because frankly, it's the emotions that I'm desperate to express, the most realistic aspect of Yu-Gi-Oh. I mean, card games aside, the characters are teenagers! Why not have them going through all these ups and downs relevant to their age, location, interests, etc.? And THEN of course, I add the "over the top" stuff, either from the series or from my own "soap operatic" imagination. So we're never short of SOMETHING to feel, something to relate to. If I've got you yelling at the screen or grinding your teeth in frustration, I've done my job.
Finally, the conclustion. I was half expecting this little bit of drama between Seta and Tea to carry over into the next chapter, but was happy to see that they have at least somewhat patched things up and come to some kind of understanding. That scene between Joey and Yami was nice to, I wouldn't nesessarily call it a happy ending, but it certainly wasn't sad or a cliffhanger. I'm senseing one of those calm before the storm moments, and if what you say about looking forward to this next arc since the begining is true, it should be incredible. (but plz not another year of waiting, lol, but do things at your own pace of course, rushing things never works out)
Oh, I love being deceptive, mischievous, and at least a bit unpredictable, especially where you're concerned, because you seem to "get" everything else without too much effort. So I'm going to keep my lips sealed and let you figure out just what I might be referring to... though I'm sure you'll figure it out quick enough when I post the next chapter (someday).
anyway, once gain, if you noticed I'm not including my E-mail. I'm the first to admit that when it comes to grammer and things of that sort, you'd be looking at the wrong guy. But if you ever are in need of any kind of help I'd be more than willing to lend whatever help I could.
keep it up.
Sincerely,
THE UNKNOWN REVIEWER
p.s. - the real name is Daniel, lol, I just got tired of that whole 'unknown'
thing. kind of anti-climactic isn't it...lol
Thank you so much for your support, Daniel! Hey, and for the record, it's a) cool to have a guy reading my fic: it tells me I'm not necessarily writing to a dedicated audience, and b) the "unknown" thing was pretty cool! Either way, I do appreciate you taking out the time to review, and so thoroughly, at that! But as I said in my last review reply to you, I just may take you up on that offer to help with the duel parts of my chapters-- namely 26 and 27. You'll be hearing from me via email if/when I ever get those chapters out and worth looking at.
-Aelibia- -- All right! You have no idea how much I wanted to read this! I had all but given up hope, and BAM! there it was in my inbox. So crackers to you for finally finishing it! That makes me want to go and finish my chapter, too. My problem is just general old procrastination, though.
Yum, crackers. Also, "my problem is just general old procrastination," too. Well, that and real life (= job + boy drama + family drama + lack of inspiration + lack of time + etc. etc).
So I was really glad Seto finally let his male instincts take over, because THOSE were a long time coming. Téa's fear was good for you to put in as well, really realistic. It's not like she's going to run into his arms and gloriously lose her virginity after THAT little display he did. And his admission of feelings was good in the sense that you made it as real as possible, and not some soap opera, late night drama thing where he prostrates on the floor, tells her he's afraid and hold me please, they both burst into tears, and then screw like bunnies on his bedroom floor. And, to be honest with you, seeing as how I would like them very MUCH to screw like bunnies on the floor, this chapter simply wasn't the time.
THANK YOU. Your words are the distilled version of exactly what I was going for with that scene, so I'm pleased that it got through to at least one person. I love good Seto x Anzu smex just as much as the next Azureshipper (if not more; I stopped being a fluff-bunny a while ago), but them "almost doing it, but not quite" is a bit of a running gag in WDKY. But I do it for good (realistic) reasons, and I hope that comes across to everyone (if not MOST readers).
Dammit.
I'm really glad you like this arc, because I'm probably going to love reading
it.
Lots of luck and love heading your way!
Thank you for taking the time out to review-- and I'll be needing/using that luck and love! I hope to have the next chapter out soon.... but you might not want to quote me on that. :P
Sylvok -- Your chapters always make up for the yearly updates ^^
Was a very good chapter, took me about a day to actually read it xP Darn being busy with school stuffs. >>
Not much I can say in a criticizing manner...so I'll say all that I can: your story is great, glad to know college hasn't killed you yet in the past four years, and glad to know that Japan didn't eat you! ^^
Gosh, it really is terrible how long it's taking for this fic, isn't it? I wish I could swear off ever doing WIPs, but having something "finished" and not published would kill me, too. When it comes to the professional world, at least, I'd have something be chewed apart by an editor before I went gung-ho into publishing it. That's probably why fanfiction will be the only thing I'd ever self-publish.... :P College has yet to kill me, and Japan certainly didn't eat me, but Disney very well may-- I'm working at Disney's California Adventure until January 2009, juggling full-time work with chores, online classes (urgh, the responsibility of doing something online other than reading fic!), and everything else under the sun. But I'm adamant about having at least an hour a week dedicated to ficcing, even if it's not for WDKY. Of course, I WANT it to be WDKY primarily... so hopefully you'll see more from me soon. Thanks for your review!
Janime Lee -- I confess I got off track with your fic. I had to go back and re-read the last few chapters to remember what happened, and I am still amazed by your creativity and dedication. So much is going on and your plot is brilliantly woven. This story captures you and it's difficult to get away. I am looking forward to the next post.
You and me both, sister! Actually, me re-reading chapters between updates is how I end up editing most of the past chapters-- and I'm sure most old readers don't notice unless they make a habit of re-reading the past chapters CAREFULLY whenever I do update (because of how long it takes me to update, and how monstrous the chapters are). I think of WDKY as a bit of an unpolished (but precious) stone. It's got a lot of work before it'll be anything bright, shiny, and renowned, but for now, it's got glimmers that have captured some people's attention. I'm going to keep polishing (via adding to the fic and editing past chapters), and maybe one day, it'll truly be the fic I've envisioned since day one. In any case, thanks for the review!
A. Valentine -- Another great chapter! Sorry I took so long to review.
I just have one question that I always forget to ask. Why do you write such long chapters? I don't have a problem with it at all, I'm just curious.
I'm looking forward to the next update!
Well, to answer your question, when I write, I formulate an outline of sorts: a beginning, middle, and end of each chapter, each scene. Sometimes that outline balloons into rather large amounts of prose, which makes for longer chapters-- but I try to abide by my personal rule not to write anything unnecessary. Everything I write is supposed to somehow contribute to the clarity of the scene, the depth of the emotion, or future plot points. There's always a reason when, where, how, and why I introduce the things I do, so if you keep that in mind, the story might open itself up in more ways.
Thanks for your review, and I hope you keep reading and enjoying!
Candace Andrews -- Thank you for spending your time and talents on this fanfic, it is very enjoyable. As an artist, your fanfic has motivated me to do fanart of my favorite couple, Seto and Tea. Please finish this fanfic...ok? ^_^
Thank YOU, Candace! And... fanart? Point me at it! I'd love to see more Seto x Anzu fanart. Do you post at DeviantART? I'm "the-sweet" there, and there are a number of talented Seto x Anzu fans, if not fanartists there that we can connect with. Do drop me a line with a link to your art, if you've got it posted anywhere. Thank you again for taking the time to read and review, and I hope you continue to read and enjoy WDKY!
Mazakai - *SCREAMS* I SAW THIS UPDATE ON MY EMAIL THIS MORINING AND A SCREAMED! I COULDNT BELIEVE IT, AND YET THERE IT WAS! I WAS SO UBER FREAKIN HAPPY THAT I
DID A LITTLE DANCE, HAHA! THIS WAS GREAT AND I CANNOT WAIT TO SEE THE FREAKIN CLIMAX OF THIS NEW PLOT TWIST! POOR SETO, I WANTED TO GIVE HIM A HUG AT THE
END, HE'S SO CONFUSED ABOUT HOW HE SHOULD ACT AND NEARLY MESSED THINGS UP WHEN HE DECIDED TO ACT LIKE A REGULAR TEENAGER WITH FREAKIN HORMONES, HAHA! I
REALLY HATE BAKURA THOUGH, DEFINITELY NOT COOL WITH MESSIN WITH MY FAVORITE COUPLE OF THE CENTURY! YAY, I'M JUST REALLY HAPPY RIGHT NOW! THANK YOU SO MUCH
FOR UPDATING AND KEEP UP THE UBER STELLAR WORK!
~Maz.
I'm not sure if I should be flattered or scared that this review's in all caps... in any case, I'm glad the review made your day! And yeah, Seto acting his age, for once, was something I was really looking forward to. In his own way, he's pretty sympathetic, because he's never really gotten to be "normal" regardless of his age. Even his peers don't think he "can" or "should" be, and that's got to put some pressure on him. He thinks he doesn't need to bother/try, but in reality, he does (and wants to), because he, like all teenagers, just wants to fit in (even if he wants to fit in to the point of being "the best at everything." Funny how that works out, right? The need to be unique and stand out, but to also be accepted and loved --to fit in, more or less? As for Bakura... ;X My lips are sealed! I hope you keep reading and enjoying the fic! Hope to see you with the next Review Replies update!
Note: I do not post all reviews that I receive here; only the ones that I feel I should reply to. For all reviews, I do NOT edit them for content/spelling/etc. in any way.
For lengthier reviews, I will insert my commentary where appropriate. The actual review will resume in italicized text.
If more reviews come in for this (or any older) chapter(s), then I will respond to them at the BOTTOM of this page, and indicate a “last updated” section here at the TOP. If there is no LAST UPDATED area, that means this post has not changed since the original post date.
RyuSenshi-DragonHawk -- FINALLY an update! I was getting worried there. In all honesty I love this story, and the chapter came at the right time. I don't like waiting, but I will even if it's another year
I hope it doesn't take me another year! I know I'm slow with updates, but that's life for you. And when I do have time to work on WDKY, the inspiration just isn't there, and the scenes I need to get written come out (in my opinion) badly. But that's why I've started to post my scenes/rough drafts here on LJ (if you have an account, drop me a message and I'll friend you so you can see them!) for commentary and criticism, so the chapters are the best they can be before I put them all together and post them Web-wide!
Thanks for your review; I hope you keep reading and enjoying the fic!
ayame11midori -- wow! I was kinda worried that you wouldn't update after such a long agonizing time! haha. just hope that Seto and Téa would talk again in the next chapter, I miss reading their sweet moments ^^
*shifty eyes* >_> Should I say something? Should I risk spoiling? In any case, this chapter is meant to set up the future arc, and I suppose it shouldn't come as a surprise that Téa and Kaiba aren't on the best of terms at the moment. Or perhaps I can clarify without much spoilerage: Téa's not too happy with Kaiba right now, but Kaiba probably doesn't know any better. :P I think real-life relationships are a bit see-saw like that, and finding the balance, when those "sweet moments" can happen, is a difficult thing to achieve. But that doesn't mean it won't happen again-- this is, after all, an Azureshipping story! In any case, thanks for your review!
Sipherous -- You know after a third time I'm making this short (yes this is my third time writing this reveiw sad ain't it)
1. I'm sorry for not reveiw this a year ago, I'm doing it now this inspried
me to start my own Seto/Anzu-Tea fic after careful research of rehashed
storylines.
Really? I'm glad to hear it inspired a fic! I'll have to check it out-- which one (if you have more than one Yu-Gi-Oh! fic) is it? The pairing can always use more writers for it!
I am a bit ashamed to admit that, when WDKY first came out, the idea of Anzu/Téa losing her parents and somehow ending up in Kaiba's employ was a bit trite, if not downright clichéd. I'd like to think I twisted that cliché a bit, and will continue to do so. The last thing I'd want is for WDKY to be (too) predictable.
2. I love your development, charaters and story arcs although I felt you kind
of went lazy when you copied the Yu-Gi-Oh! Pyramid of Light Arc from the Movie
but other than that wicked adaptation.
My treatment of the movie has people in several different camps. I wasn't trying to be unoriginal or lazy, I just thought that the plotline of the movie fit really well into the existing framework of what I had planned for WDKY, past and future chapters. I didn't want to do a partial adaptation of the movie, because I wanted to explore the possibilities of everything everyone saw in the movie having a COMPLETELY different motivation behind them. Or, in several cases, a different perspective. Believe me, the movie-adaptation chapters ARE critical to the story as a whole, so please don't dismiss them or skim them and think you know all there is to know from watching the movies! I guarantee you'll miss out if you do!
3. I may have guessed Bakura's plans but the only proof I have is 'Engine of
Destruction' Line so I'll leave my hypothesis of your mind slightly off till
later.
*grin* I totally did that on purpose and I'm not ashamed in the least bit. Glad you caught it.
4.Overall I'm happy you finally got this out in the interest of many your
story ranks one of the best I've read (and I've read them all sadly jsut
haven't hreveiwed them all) and I hope you continue to work with this in the
future.
Sipherous
Thank you for taking the time to review, and I hope you continue to read and enjoy the fic!
ANGELforSHOW -- Azurite -
I've read this story since I was in 7th grade, back when the latest chapter had been chapter 15, the Christmas chapter. And y'know what? I'm in 10th grade now, and I still love it, three years and ten chapters later.
I'm kind of laughing out of shock, the fact that it's been that long. I also feel kind of old. O_o
I dropped YGO when I was 10 years old -- I found this fic when I was 12, intrigued because I thought YGO characters had such fic potential. I'm known for having a notoriously short attention span. Thank you so much for being able to keep my interest. (:
Thank you! I'm glad I could, and I hope I continue to, with future chapters!
There's just something about the plot here, unraveling one mystery from another, how you manage to show the strains of real life in Tea and Seto's relationship, the emotion that every character positively radiates, and the adorable breaks between the action that draws everyone in.
You've molded this story from the initial charm of solemn Kaiba taking in the vividly bright Tea after an 'accident', to building a wildly complicated relationship, each aspect portraying the real world.
And you've done a ** awesome job. :]
I look forward to the next update -- whether it's in two days or five years,
be assured that I will be reading it. :D
Again, thank you! I'm totally bowled over by your super-kind praise, and I can only hope you keep reading and enjoying the story. I do apologize for being so sporadic with my updates, but that is real life-- but I refuse to quit on WDKY! I want to see it through: all 36 chapters of this first story, and all "however-many-chapters" of the second and third. Hope to keep you reading (even after we've BOTH graduated college)!
UniChild -- oh my God...alrighty...uh...
Azurite...I sincerly apologize in advance for the following obnoxious
fangirl-ness I'm about to unleash, but am having a hard time concealing...
...
AH!
FRICKEN GAH! *glomps and clings to you while crying happy tears*
You UPDATED, omg I love you...!
*cough*
Now I shall try to calm myself. *deep breath*
*big sigh* Anyway...I was on the phone with my bf when I saw the update for
this in my inbox.
I think he went partially deaf...'cause I literally screamed. I was/am so
thrilled to see this update, like you don't even realize.
Don't freak, but this is my FAVORITE fan fiction EVER. Not just of yugioh, or
setoxanzu...but...literally of all time.
THANK YOU SO MUCH. No, really. Praise like that really just gets me in the bottom of my heart, and it makes me want to keep writing and hopefully keep getting better. I'd like to think I don't write for praise's sake, but I do write because I enjoy sharing my ideas with other people, and seeing how my storytelling can make them feel or think. If I've accomplished that, then I feel on top of the world!
Your way of pulling the reader right into your story with effective imagery,
clever yet realistic plot twists, and believable characters is amazing.
And I absolutely ADORE the sense humor you add. It reminds me of how I act
around my best friend and it's just heartwarming in a way.
You had me rolling with laughter especially with the "obelisk" swimming
trunks spin.
Good God, I was like "That's from her 'The Joke's On You' fic!!" and my bf
actually read that one so we both had a good laugh over it.
TJOY came before WDKY in terms of ideas, but I could never bring myself to finish writing it because what I started out with -humor of the dirty-minded variety- ended up becoming overly dramatic and suspenseful-- too much like what I had planned for WDKY, in other words. TJOY is still lingering in cyberspace for that very reason. I'd like to get at least WDKY (not necessarily the other 2 stories in that universe) done before I attempt TJOY again, mainly so I can "get the drama out of my system," so to speak. But I can't let those Obelisk jokes die. They're just TOO GOOD.
Ugh...if I had more time, I'd so illustrate some scenes from your fic. I know
for sure I'll probably be doing some more fanart for you sometime. T.T It's
just...freaking irrestistable...
Please, please, pretty please? If I summon Sailor Pluto to play with the Time-Space stream, will you? I'd love more fanart for WDKY, especially of the color-variety. I'd try myself; heck knows I've got countless ideas for it, but I don't think my drawing style compares to yours, Lin's, Kazumi Akai's, Guardian Kysra's, Mamono's... etc. etc. We have so many "dual" talented artists in this fandom-- we're so lucky! I'm also lucky to call so many of them friends. :) *sniff*
All of the issues that keep coming up in the fic story-wise, though, may
become a bit...much...if they don't stop soon. I mean...things just won't stop
happening. o.O Now what's this "presence older than the millenium items", hm?
:3 Here we go again. But I have faith that you can pull it off alright.
Man...ok. I'm done (not really but I'm forcing myself to stop). It's bed
time.
EXCELLENT chapter, Azurite, I love it. Your twists are to die for. ^^ And
good luck with future chapters!
~Uni
THANK YOU so much for your kind review! I really super-duper appreciate it. But don't worry, the plots and subplots shouldn't be too confusing. As we wind down, things should all start connecting and making sense again... at least, I hope they do. In any case, check this LJ for advance snippets of scenes (rough drafts), and let me know if I'm failing to make sense! Again, thank you, and I hope you continue to read and enjoy!
unknown reviewer -- well well well...haven't seen you in a while. I have to admit you had me worried for a while, I was afraid it might have been the end of things.
Fortunatly I just couldn't let such an awesome story slip out of my mind and I continued to check up on things every now and then. It was only recently that I was able to see your LiveJournal and learn that you were indeed still working on the story. I remember how I once said that you could wait and year and I would still consider your updates worthwhile...well, I wasn't exactly expecting you to hold me to that, but regardless, I must say it was still a great update.
Aw, heck no! If I ever stop updating this story (as in, more than a year and a half goes by, judging by my past record), I've either kicked the bucket or have had a REALLY bad strain of luck (writer's block + real life SUCKING MAJORLY). Since that has yet to actually happen (and I hope it never will), I'm working on it in bits and pieces, whenever I can, and whenever I have the inspiration. For a fic that has the entire plot mapped out, pretty much the only difficult thing is finding the right words to "proseify" the ideas into something readable.
as for the chapter, a very interesting peice to say the least. I noticed some pseudo-confirmation of Tea's connection to the Blue Eyes (engine of destruction anyone?), the only question in my mind is now what you plan to do with Kisara and that whole story. I am very glad to see Bakura making his presence known more, it was nice seeing him quietly watching things from the shadows, but its just to much fun seeing him toy with people face to face.
I think out of all the characters, Bakura's the hardest for me to write. Even in the anime, he was pretty in the dark-- we knew he wanted revenge against the Pharaoh, we knew he wanted the Millennium Items at all costs, but why? I think there really had to be a good reason why Takahashi chose Bakura to be the penultimate villain of the final arc of Yu-Gi-Oh!, and I kind of want to explore that "feeling" Bakura gives off. I'm not saying he's a villain, per se... if anything, he's more of an anti-hero in WDKY, the way Seto was in the anime. But what makes him difficult to write isn't his "status" or "archetype," it's just his personality. I don't WANT him to be easy to figure out, or predictable. He's not like that in canon, so why should he be in WDKY?
Again, considering how bakura spoke of something more ancient then themselves, I can only picture Dartz. If I'm right, I can't wait to see what you do with that arc. It wasn't exactly my favorite in the anime but with your amazing ability to weave your own plotlines into the main story, it should be something truely amazing.
I hope so, too! But I can't say any more than that. :P
As for the little calendar subplot, lol, everything in that town seems to revolve around this card game doesn't it. I'm sorry, but I just found it hilarious when they brought up a duelists calendar. Joking aside though, the dramatic events that came during the shoot and after were very well done. You are a true wonder when it comes to showing emotion, through thoughts, dialog, and actions. I can honestly think of very few actual published novels where I have seen characters as human and full of emotion as your story right here. I'm honestly having trouble putting into words just how awe-inspiring it is. You have a gift, there is no denying that.
*bows* Thank you very kindly for your high praise! With WDKY, I try to remember that, since canon revolved around Duel Monsters, I have to include it. If I tried to make it too real-life, then it would take away a lot of the motivation the characters have. Like, seriously, why is a card game determining the fate of the free world? Why are paper cards rare and sought over enough to warrant law-breaking? Why is there such a long-standing rivalry between Seto Kaiba and Yugi Moto? Duel Monsters is the crux of the series, so in a way, it's a major component of WDKY, too, even if there's not a ton of duels, or if emphasis is constantly placed on what duels there are. Plus, if in other anime, the focus can be on Pokémon or Sailor Senshi or whatnot, why not card games in this series? Of course, there are going to be some people who don't give two Kuribohs about the game itself, but more about the players-- and people are like that in real life, with all number of things.
Moving on to Seto and Tea, I think we may have just reached some kind of breakthough, though getting there caused more than enough drama. Seto actually coming to terms with his own shortcomings and even more surprisingly admiting them to another person is a huge step for him. Tea however still seems to be having some issues, if she doesn't get her own trust issues taken care of this thing with Bakura is going to bite her in the **.
Oooh, yes. And thank you for recognizing it, because frankly, it's the emotions that I'm desperate to express, the most realistic aspect of Yu-Gi-Oh. I mean, card games aside, the characters are teenagers! Why not have them going through all these ups and downs relevant to their age, location, interests, etc.? And THEN of course, I add the "over the top" stuff, either from the series or from my own "soap operatic" imagination. So we're never short of SOMETHING to feel, something to relate to. If I've got you yelling at the screen or grinding your teeth in frustration, I've done my job.
Finally, the conclustion. I was half expecting this little bit of drama between Seta and Tea to carry over into the next chapter, but was happy to see that they have at least somewhat patched things up and come to some kind of understanding. That scene between Joey and Yami was nice to, I wouldn't nesessarily call it a happy ending, but it certainly wasn't sad or a cliffhanger. I'm senseing one of those calm before the storm moments, and if what you say about looking forward to this next arc since the begining is true, it should be incredible. (but plz not another year of waiting, lol, but do things at your own pace of course, rushing things never works out)
Oh, I love being deceptive, mischievous, and at least a bit unpredictable, especially where you're concerned, because you seem to "get" everything else without too much effort. So I'm going to keep my lips sealed and let you figure out just what I might be referring to... though I'm sure you'll figure it out quick enough when I post the next chapter (someday).
anyway, once gain, if you noticed I'm not including my E-mail. I'm the first to admit that when it comes to grammer and things of that sort, you'd be looking at the wrong guy. But if you ever are in need of any kind of help I'd be more than willing to lend whatever help I could.
keep it up.
Sincerely,
THE UNKNOWN REVIEWER
p.s. - the real name is Daniel, lol, I just got tired of that whole 'unknown'
thing. kind of anti-climactic isn't it...lol
Thank you so much for your support, Daniel! Hey, and for the record, it's a) cool to have a guy reading my fic: it tells me I'm not necessarily writing to a dedicated audience, and b) the "unknown" thing was pretty cool! Either way, I do appreciate you taking out the time to review, and so thoroughly, at that! But as I said in my last review reply to you, I just may take you up on that offer to help with the duel parts of my chapters-- namely 26 and 27. You'll be hearing from me via email if/when I ever get those chapters out and worth looking at.
-Aelibia- -- All right! You have no idea how much I wanted to read this! I had all but given up hope, and BAM! there it was in my inbox. So crackers to you for finally finishing it! That makes me want to go and finish my chapter, too. My problem is just general old procrastination, though.
Yum, crackers. Also, "my problem is just general old procrastination," too. Well, that and real life (= job + boy drama + family drama + lack of inspiration + lack of time + etc. etc).
So I was really glad Seto finally let his male instincts take over, because THOSE were a long time coming. Téa's fear was good for you to put in as well, really realistic. It's not like she's going to run into his arms and gloriously lose her virginity after THAT little display he did. And his admission of feelings was good in the sense that you made it as real as possible, and not some soap opera, late night drama thing where he prostrates on the floor, tells her he's afraid and hold me please, they both burst into tears, and then screw like bunnies on his bedroom floor. And, to be honest with you, seeing as how I would like them very MUCH to screw like bunnies on the floor, this chapter simply wasn't the time.
THANK YOU. Your words are the distilled version of exactly what I was going for with that scene, so I'm pleased that it got through to at least one person. I love good Seto x Anzu smex just as much as the next Azureshipper (if not more; I stopped being a fluff-bunny a while ago), but them "almost doing it, but not quite" is a bit of a running gag in WDKY. But I do it for good (realistic) reasons, and I hope that comes across to everyone (if not MOST readers).
Dammit.
I'm really glad you like this arc, because I'm probably going to love reading
it.
Lots of luck and love heading your way!
Thank you for taking the time out to review-- and I'll be needing/using that luck and love! I hope to have the next chapter out soon.... but you might not want to quote me on that. :P
Sylvok -- Your chapters always make up for the yearly updates ^^
Was a very good chapter, took me about a day to actually read it xP Darn being busy with school stuffs. >>
Not much I can say in a criticizing manner...so I'll say all that I can: your story is great, glad to know college hasn't killed you yet in the past four years, and glad to know that Japan didn't eat you! ^^
Gosh, it really is terrible how long it's taking for this fic, isn't it? I wish I could swear off ever doing WIPs, but having something "finished" and not published would kill me, too. When it comes to the professional world, at least, I'd have something be chewed apart by an editor before I went gung-ho into publishing it. That's probably why fanfiction will be the only thing I'd ever self-publish.... :P College has yet to kill me, and Japan certainly didn't eat me, but Disney very well may-- I'm working at Disney's California Adventure until January 2009, juggling full-time work with chores, online classes (urgh, the responsibility of doing something online other than reading fic!), and everything else under the sun. But I'm adamant about having at least an hour a week dedicated to ficcing, even if it's not for WDKY. Of course, I WANT it to be WDKY primarily... so hopefully you'll see more from me soon. Thanks for your review!
Janime Lee -- I confess I got off track with your fic. I had to go back and re-read the last few chapters to remember what happened, and I am still amazed by your creativity and dedication. So much is going on and your plot is brilliantly woven. This story captures you and it's difficult to get away. I am looking forward to the next post.
You and me both, sister! Actually, me re-reading chapters between updates is how I end up editing most of the past chapters-- and I'm sure most old readers don't notice unless they make a habit of re-reading the past chapters CAREFULLY whenever I do update (because of how long it takes me to update, and how monstrous the chapters are). I think of WDKY as a bit of an unpolished (but precious) stone. It's got a lot of work before it'll be anything bright, shiny, and renowned, but for now, it's got glimmers that have captured some people's attention. I'm going to keep polishing (via adding to the fic and editing past chapters), and maybe one day, it'll truly be the fic I've envisioned since day one. In any case, thanks for the review!
A. Valentine -- Another great chapter! Sorry I took so long to review.
I just have one question that I always forget to ask. Why do you write such long chapters? I don't have a problem with it at all, I'm just curious.
I'm looking forward to the next update!
Well, to answer your question, when I write, I formulate an outline of sorts: a beginning, middle, and end of each chapter, each scene. Sometimes that outline balloons into rather large amounts of prose, which makes for longer chapters-- but I try to abide by my personal rule not to write anything unnecessary. Everything I write is supposed to somehow contribute to the clarity of the scene, the depth of the emotion, or future plot points. There's always a reason when, where, how, and why I introduce the things I do, so if you keep that in mind, the story might open itself up in more ways.
Thanks for your review, and I hope you keep reading and enjoying!
Candace Andrews -- Thank you for spending your time and talents on this fanfic, it is very enjoyable. As an artist, your fanfic has motivated me to do fanart of my favorite couple, Seto and Tea. Please finish this fanfic...ok? ^_^
Thank YOU, Candace! And... fanart? Point me at it! I'd love to see more Seto x Anzu fanart. Do you post at DeviantART? I'm "the-sweet" there, and there are a number of talented Seto x Anzu fans, if not fanartists there that we can connect with. Do drop me a line with a link to your art, if you've got it posted anywhere. Thank you again for taking the time to read and review, and I hope you continue to read and enjoy WDKY!
Mazakai - *SCREAMS* I SAW THIS UPDATE ON MY EMAIL THIS MORINING AND A SCREAMED! I COULDNT BELIEVE IT, AND YET THERE IT WAS! I WAS SO UBER FREAKIN HAPPY THAT I
DID A LITTLE DANCE, HAHA! THIS WAS GREAT AND I CANNOT WAIT TO SEE THE FREAKIN CLIMAX OF THIS NEW PLOT TWIST! POOR SETO, I WANTED TO GIVE HIM A HUG AT THE
END, HE'S SO CONFUSED ABOUT HOW HE SHOULD ACT AND NEARLY MESSED THINGS UP WHEN HE DECIDED TO ACT LIKE A REGULAR TEENAGER WITH FREAKIN HORMONES, HAHA! I
REALLY HATE BAKURA THOUGH, DEFINITELY NOT COOL WITH MESSIN WITH MY FAVORITE COUPLE OF THE CENTURY! YAY, I'M JUST REALLY HAPPY RIGHT NOW! THANK YOU SO MUCH
FOR UPDATING AND KEEP UP THE UBER STELLAR WORK!
~Maz.
I'm not sure if I should be flattered or scared that this review's in all caps... in any case, I'm glad the review made your day! And yeah, Seto acting his age, for once, was something I was really looking forward to. In his own way, he's pretty sympathetic, because he's never really gotten to be "normal" regardless of his age. Even his peers don't think he "can" or "should" be, and that's got to put some pressure on him. He thinks he doesn't need to bother/try, but in reality, he does (and wants to), because he, like all teenagers, just wants to fit in (even if he wants to fit in to the point of being "the best at everything." Funny how that works out, right? The need to be unique and stand out, but to also be accepted and loved --to fit in, more or less? As for Bakura... ;X My lips are sealed! I hope you keep reading and enjoying the fic! Hope to see you with the next Review Replies update!
