Tay

Chapter 0.5
The Taylor of the Batman
 
(Authors Note: I have no clue if Tay's name is Taylor. It could be Jawaharla for all I care.)
 
Batman walked into the steaming bath house. No one was around for miles. It was a really big bath house. Batman removed his hockey pants, and then his baT-shirt (It was summer). He left on just the mask and slowly lowered himself into the warm bath. The hot water washed all of Batman's worries away. Who cared about solving riddles and stopping silly clowns. This was life. Suddenly, he heard footsteps. 
 
Using all 7 of his senses (touch, smell, sight, hearing, taste, sonar, and flying), Batman quickly identified the intruder. It was a male, likely 7 feet tall, and 180 lbs (thats American for fuck the metric system). 
 
"Oh, I didn't know anyone was in here." Tay's soothing deep voice caused ripples to move across the water.
 
"It's fine," Batman growled in a raspy voice. "You can stay citizen."
 
Tay slowly took off his clothes revealing a finely sculpted body no doubt due to a vicious training regime involving typing and doctoring. Batman was jealous. Why should this 7 foot man have a body that would make the Statue of David weep in envy?
 
"Nice abs." That is all that Batman could say to this person. 
 
"Thanks. Nice mask." 
 
Batman blushed. He liked the mask. He must be a good person. Tay lowered himself into the water and let out a sigh.
 
"Long day?" Batman asked. 
"You could say that. Someone is always angry."
Batman didn't know what this man was talking about.
"So what is your name?" the man asked Batman.
"I'm Batman!" Batman yelled.
"I see. I am Tay. I have no last name that is publicly known but for the right price certain people will give it out."
"I understand. So if people want to know your last name, they should send $37.56 to [email protected]."
"Exactly." Tay let out another sigh. Batman felt awkward. Bats fluttered around in his stomach. 
"Say... you don't think I could see yours?" Tay suddenly asked.
"What what what what!?" Batman began panicking. What if Tay didn't like it? Batman put a lot of work into it and was filled with pride by it. But this 7 foot Tay might not like it. Who knows what went on behind that sexy face of a god?
"I'll show you mine if you show me yours." Tay was upping the ante. How could Batman refuse now. 
Slowly, Batman wrapped his fingers around the base, slowly pulling up. Being very careful, Batman continued to slide his fingers up as Tay watched on with a gentle smile. 
The mask finally came off. Tay gasped in delight upon seeing the man behind the mask. He now knew who Batman was. 
"Your turn," batman whispered.
Tay then tore off his mask revealing his true identity. He was Batman. 

Light blue may have won out, but since so many of the staff liked the pink, I wouldn't mind doing Fabulous Fridays. You'll just need to remind me to make the changes. Otherwise I'll forget.

Light blue may have won out, but since so many of the staff liked the pink, I wouldn't mind doing Fabulous Fridays. You'll just need to remind me to make the changes. Otherwise I'll forget.

Well it's 5AM where I'm at so i'll leave this final argument before going to sleep with my honest opinions on all 3 colors.
 
Blue is relaxing, I like blue a lot, it's a nice color, but the purpose of this change is to make the names noticeable, this tone of blue will most definintely blend in with all the green and thus the purpose of the change becomes meaningless.
Unless you present me a tone of blue that does a better job and that isn't appallingly dark.
 
Orange forms a nice harmony with green while at the same time standing out from it.
It's the best of both worlds, relaxing and fitting while at the same time standing out just enough to do the job.
In my most honest opinion, Orange is by far the best color for the job.
 
Pink stands out. A lot.
If you want to be noticed just go with pink.
It's also incredibly fabulous.
I wouldn't hate it, i think it'd be pretty fun to be pink
It does however stand out a lot and might be too much.
 
With this I leave the rest of the discussion to all of you gentlemen.

I missed my 2000 post celebration and Tay kindly pointed out that 2014 would be another good post to play with. I also missed it. So I'm here to celebrate my 2029th post. What is in this post? Actually some goodies. I'm also drinking in celebration. What the hell is my life?
 
First off, my fanfiction is coming along nicely. It makes zero sense and right now the current draft is Batman shitting all over the plot of Little Busters. So far, so good. Not sure when I'll be tired enough to post it. Likely Tuesday?
 
Secondly, my VN project is still a thing and is looking good, even if have missed every single self-imposed deadline. But its fine. Right now the current draft for common sits at just over 1,000 lines and the common will likely go on for at least 5-6,000 more. I'm hoping to have the common route completed by mid August and aim now for a early-mid 2015 release. This thing is turning out much larger than I anticipated but I love what has come out of this so far. Stay tuned for more info. 
 
Finally, my streams are coming back, though in a slightly different manner. We will be switching to a monthly (maybe twice a month) stream. Rewrite is still on the agenda, alongside a brand new stream that will see more info soon. I hope you like OELVNs! 
 
Oh... maybe another big stupid competition involving points and stupidity soon?
 
So there you have it. Happy 2029 posts to me and holy hell I need new hobbies. 

Dear Steve,
 
Like I mentioned in our PM, all of this came at a difficult time for me, and I’m sorry it’s taken me this long to respond. I wanted to make sure I understood my feelings and could articulate my thoughts sufficiently well to give you the credit you deserve, and push back a little (because that’s what we do ) (I shouldn’t have underestimated you, you sly devil ).
 
I’ll first respond as a friend. You have put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into Fuwanovel. You are a man of many talents, and the work you produce is always top notch. You’re passionate, and, for better or worse (depending on whether or not you’re on my side in an argument ), you’re extremely principled. Steve – you always give 110% to projects you believe in, and I admire that in you. Very much so. I believe that Fuwanovel has benefitted much by your optimism, your enthusiasm, and the hundreds and hundreds (and hundreds!) of pages of text you’ve generated in replies and posts. Nobody writes a wall of text quite like Steve. (I mean, I like to think I do a pretty good job of it, but you’re a master. *Raises glass*)
 
On a more vulnerable note – I can think of at least four times when I went to you with self-doubt, self-criticism, or simply feeling low, and you were always supportive. Many people know you as the potentially-insane loli overlord – which you are! (the overlord part) (jury’s still out on the crazy bit) – but I’m grateful that our work together has shown me another side of you. I think you’re a fundamentally good human being who cares (sometimes too much) about people. Our friendship means a lot to me.
 
… Even if I keep blowing you off about D&D.
 
As a friend, I feel like this move is probably good for you. You’ve entered a new phase of life where you’re boldly exploring your Japanese skills, you’ve got a thumb on the pulse of translation projects, and you’re brainstorming/planning some other secret projects which have a lot of potential. I’m excited to see what your lazer-like enthusiasm and work will accomplish. Like I said before, you’re exceptionally skilled and your work is always top-notch. I know that your biggest projects and brightest days still lie in front of you.
 
 
 
On the flip side, the Tay-as-administrator part of me has to hand it to you. This post was cunning and clever ; ). I disagree with many of the points you raised and the picture you painted. But I'm not sure that it matters. This was your decision, and like I said, I think it was the right one for you. Not because you aren’t welcome on the staff (I will very much miss your help), but because I think you have new projects and horizons to explore.
 
 
 
 
So, in the end, I’ll raise a glass to you. As with most everything you do, you gave it your all. If anything I’m sad to hear the tones of struggle and defeat as you describe your experience. I hope that with time, you’ll look back at this chapter on the staff as positive. It wasn’t all defeats and clouds. We all have had our time in the sunshine.
 
You have bright days ahead. I’m looking forward to where they take you.
 
 
All the best. Truly.
- Tay

Dear Steve,
 
Like I mentioned in our PM, all of this came at a difficult time for me, and I’m sorry it’s taken me this long to respond. I wanted to make sure I understood my feelings and could articulate my thoughts sufficiently well to give you the credit you deserve, and push back a little (because that’s what we do ) (I shouldn’t have underestimated you, you sly devil ).
 
I’ll first respond as a friend. You have put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into Fuwanovel. You are a man of many talents, and the work you produce is always top notch. You’re passionate, and, for better or worse (depending on whether or not you’re on my side in an argument ), you’re extremely principled. Steve – you always give 110% to projects you believe in, and I admire that in you. Very much so. I believe that Fuwanovel has benefitted much by your optimism, your enthusiasm, and the hundreds and hundreds (and hundreds!) of pages of text you’ve generated in replies and posts. Nobody writes a wall of text quite like Steve. (I mean, I like to think I do a pretty good job of it, but you’re a master. *Raises glass*)
 
On a more vulnerable note – I can think of at least four times when I went to you with self-doubt, self-criticism, or simply feeling low, and you were always supportive. Many people know you as the potentially-insane loli overlord – which you are! (the overlord part) (jury’s still out on the crazy bit) – but I’m grateful that our work together has shown me another side of you. I think you’re a fundamentally good human being who cares (sometimes too much) about people. Our friendship means a lot to me.
 
… Even if I keep blowing you off about D&D.
 
As a friend, I feel like this move is probably good for you. You’ve entered a new phase of life where you’re boldly exploring your Japanese skills, you’ve got a thumb on the pulse of translation projects, and you’re brainstorming/planning some other secret projects which have a lot of potential. I’m excited to see what your lazer-like enthusiasm and work will accomplish. Like I said before, you’re exceptionally skilled and your work is always top-notch. I know that your biggest projects and brightest days still lie in front of you.
 
 
 
On the flip side, the Tay-as-administrator part of me has to hand it to you. This post was cunning and clever ; ). I disagree with many of the points you raised and the picture you painted. But I'm not sure that it matters. This was your decision, and like I said, I think it was the right one for you. Not because you aren’t welcome on the staff (I will very much miss your help), but because I think you have new projects and horizons to explore.
 
 
 
 
So, in the end, I’ll raise a glass to you. As with most everything you do, you gave it your all. If anything I’m sad to hear the tones of struggle and defeat as you describe your experience. I hope that with time, you’ll look back at this chapter on the staff as positive. It wasn’t all defeats and clouds. We all have had our time in the sunshine.
 
You have bright days ahead. I’m looking forward to where they take you.
 
 
All the best. Truly.
- Tay

I enjoyed our conversation. Thank you for letting me back on, and for recording an episode much different than the rest! My apologies to everybody (sanahtlig!) for semi-throwing off the episode order!

Hey everybody,
 
Almost 90 posts! If you feel like this discussion has been going round-and-round in circles, then you should be glad you weren't party to the 2012 and 2013 discussions -- the first back-and-forth we had on Fuwanovel about hosting localized games had >200 replies and, if I remember right, was deleted. I still have minor PTSD thinking about it.
 
Let's all take a step back and look at this thread for a minute. We'll notice that there are many well-thought-out and well-presented arguments on both sides. We'll also notice that almost nobody has been swayed from one side to the other. Please allow me to state the obvious: This is a point of disagreement, and the two arguments aren't going to be reconciled no matter how long we go on. 
 
I tend to see this as a good thing: it means that I don't need to get emotional about the debate, and I don't need to take it personally on any level. I suggest everybody deescalate emotionally from the conflict.
 
 
 
 
Let's start with Aaeru.
People like to channel Aaeru (especially in this argument) because many remember and think of her as a sort of ancient, canonized, ultimate authority. I was around and an admin when the Fuwanovel policies were being decided, and Aaeru and I talked several times about this issue.
 
On the one hand Aaeru was(/is) an extreme pirate: she hated copyright, hated the idea of intellectual property, and wanted to put all VNs up for pirating. She was a pirate through-and-through -- to the point of once sharing with me some Australian Pirate Party propaganda  .
 
Yet, on the other hand, as Fuwanovel administrators she and I spoke about this issue more than once, and every time we came to the agreement that it's in Fuwanovel's best interest not to host licensed games. Aaeru wavered from time to time, but the policy was solidified and codified when Aaeru's DC III project was crushed by Gangamamer. Some of you remember that happening. Aaeru was crushed and it took several weeks for her to recover. I remember the long conversation she and I had during the weeks she was away from the site, recovering.
 
Anybody who knew Aaeru knew that she was a pirate to her core. Those that served with her as staff (we still have a few of them around), including myself (a co-admin), however know that she recognized and codified our current policy. Fuwanovel doesn't host licensed games. We generally drop the games within a few months of their announcement -- so long as progress on the translation is being made. 
 
 
 
 
 
Now I'm going to try and cut to the heart of the matter
This specific topic has shown that it really doesn't matter how many good reasons we put down on paper for either side. Good arguments aren't going to persuade the other side off the wall. Time and time again this issue has put a real and painful strain on the community. I'm sad to say that I've lost multiple staff members to this issue -- many have resigned over it, and it kills me to say that some are threatening to leave over it again.
 
This topic has repeatedly caused distress to the community. That is why we have a policy -- to prevent confusion for members and staff alike; and to give clear direction as new situations arise. That's the reason why we make them. One of my roles is to make sure we aren't forgetting about the foundations of the site, and ensure that we stay true to them. Fuwanovel's policy is that we don't host licensed games on the site.
 
 
 
 
 
Brass Tacks
I've been discussing the actual logistics of this issue with the staff and we're currently discussing how to proceed. If the decision is to abide by our longstanding policy, then I want to assure the community that the torrents are not going to disappear overnight. There will be notice about the plan and clear communication. 
 
I've read this entire thread twice, and I've spent a lot of time ensuring that I understand points raised both here and in the staff forums. I want to assure everybody that your voices are heard, and the staff and I will value further points raised here.
 
At some point a decision must be made, however, and experience has taught me that there will be anger and hurt feelings regardless of what's chosen. I urge everybody to remember that we're all here for the love of a hobby, and that Fuwanovel's core is a respectful and friendly place to celebrate visual novels. This decision isn't the end of the world, and won't substantially change your Fuwanovel experience. I encourage everybody -- myself included -- to watch yourselves and your discourse and make sure we aren't being explosively hyperbolic in the aftermath.

Grief points are tracked by the staff -- it wont show up on your profile. 
 
Point forgiveness: Think of the two warnings as grief points, too. You will get at LEAST one grief point forgiven each month. The consequence of getting a grief point depends on how many points you have total.
 
Example:
First offense = +1 grief point = 1 total grief point, given a warning
Second offense = +1 point = 2 total points, given a warming
Third offense = +1 point = 3 total points, given a 24 hour ban
Month changes, one point forgiven, 2 total points now
Fourth offense = +1 point = 3 total points, given a 24 hour ban
Month changes, one point forgiven, 2 total points now
Month changes, one point forgiven, 1 total points now
Fifth offense = +1 point = 2 total points, given a warning

How rich. A known charlatan and trickster is rousing the peasantry.
 
And just what, exactly, do you "demand"?

Don't worry, this isn't another appreciation thread (dear god almighty), but I just wanted to say the activities the staff has been hosting this month have been an awesome way to involve the community. The forums have felt more active than normal. The MotM and the logo competition are fun additions.

Hey everybody,
 
Almost 90 posts! If you feel like this discussion has been going round-and-round in circles, then you should be glad you weren't party to the 2012 and 2013 discussions -- the first back-and-forth we had on Fuwanovel about hosting localized games had >200 replies and, if I remember right, was deleted. I still have minor PTSD thinking about it.
 
Let's all take a step back and look at this thread for a minute. We'll notice that there are many well-thought-out and well-presented arguments on both sides. We'll also notice that almost nobody has been swayed from one side to the other. Please allow me to state the obvious: This is a point of disagreement, and the two arguments aren't going to be reconciled no matter how long we go on. 
 
I tend to see this as a good thing: it means that I don't need to get emotional about the debate, and I don't need to take it personally on any level. I suggest everybody deescalate emotionally from the conflict.
 
 
 
 
Let's start with Aaeru.
People like to channel Aaeru (especially in this argument) because many remember and think of her as a sort of ancient, canonized, ultimate authority. I was around and an admin when the Fuwanovel policies were being decided, and Aaeru and I talked several times about this issue.
 
On the one hand Aaeru was(/is) an extreme pirate: she hated copyright, hated the idea of intellectual property, and wanted to put all VNs up for pirating. She was a pirate through-and-through -- to the point of once sharing with me some Australian Pirate Party propaganda  .
 
Yet, on the other hand, as Fuwanovel administrators she and I spoke about this issue more than once, and every time we came to the agreement that it's in Fuwanovel's best interest not to host licensed games. Aaeru wavered from time to time, but the policy was solidified and codified when Aaeru's DC III project was crushed by Gangamamer. Some of you remember that happening. Aaeru was crushed and it took several weeks for her to recover. I remember the long conversation she and I had during the weeks she was away from the site, recovering.
 
Anybody who knew Aaeru knew that she was a pirate to her core. Those that served with her as staff (we still have a few of them around), including myself (a co-admin), however know that she recognized and codified our current policy. Fuwanovel doesn't host licensed games. We generally drop the games within a few months of their announcement -- so long as progress on the translation is being made. 
 
 
 
 
 
Now I'm going to try and cut to the heart of the matter
This specific topic has shown that it really doesn't matter how many good reasons we put down on paper for either side. Good arguments aren't going to persuade the other side off the wall. Time and time again this issue has put a real and painful strain on the community. I'm sad to say that I've lost multiple staff members to this issue -- many have resigned over it, and it kills me to say that some are threatening to leave over it again.
 
This topic has repeatedly caused distress to the community. That is why we have a policy -- to prevent confusion for members and staff alike; and to give clear direction as new situations arise. That's the reason why we make them. One of my roles is to make sure we aren't forgetting about the foundations of the site, and ensure that we stay true to them. Fuwanovel's policy is that we don't host licensed games on the site.
 
 
 
 
 
Brass Tacks
I've been discussing the actual logistics of this issue with the staff and we're currently discussing how to proceed. If the decision is to abide by our longstanding policy, then I want to assure the community that the torrents are not going to disappear overnight. There will be notice about the plan and clear communication. 
 
I've read this entire thread twice, and I've spent a lot of time ensuring that I understand points raised both here and in the staff forums. I want to assure everybody that your voices are heard, and the staff and I will value further points raised here.
 
At some point a decision must be made, however, and experience has taught me that there will be anger and hurt feelings regardless of what's chosen. I urge everybody to remember that we're all here for the love of a hobby, and that Fuwanovel's core is a respectful and friendly place to celebrate visual novels. This decision isn't the end of the world, and won't substantially change your Fuwanovel experience. I encourage everybody -- myself included -- to watch yourselves and your discourse and make sure we aren't being explosively hyperbolic in the aftermath.

If you have exposure to language learning, than you should be fine starting with Kanji and expanding from there. There are many good arguments to starting with the Kanji (the intro to RTK has good words of wisdom on the matter), just as there are for other systems.
 
Tae Kim's book is challenging, but I'm finding myself very grateful for having done RTK first. The psychological barrier of having the Kanji over and done with is liberating, and I'm moving extremely fast into the reading phase of learning Japanese.
 
 
 
 
... So... in the end, follow what works for you. The key: don't give up, and don't take breaks. Scale waaaaay back if you have to, but always -- ALWAYS -- do new material every day.

*Raises glass* Here's to the spirit of the Fuwanovel forums, which you channeled so well.
 
 
#1 Favorite:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1k8craCGpgs
 
#2 Favorite (this week. Changes often):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLO7tCdBVrA

*Raises glass* Here's to the spirit of the Fuwanovel forums, which you channeled so well.
 
 
#1 Favorite:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1k8craCGpgs
 
#2 Favorite (this week. Changes often):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLO7tCdBVrA

thanks to everyone on the FuwaForums and everyone who said hi on my introduction topic i don't want to be the guy who say's thanks allot but i guess that's just me in that case THANKS! lol I still have allot of people to meet on the forums but i'll cross that bridge when i come to It. I have a lot more confidences cus of all you guys sooo thanks for that.....wow this getting cheesy lets make it fun tell me your 2 fav songs mine are
 
Daft Punk: Give Life Back To Music



  Muse: Resistance



lol my big 50 aka 50 posts special thanks to Monmon

How have visual novels impacted my life? Ya know, I've always thought about this question and how to best answer it and after much thought I can honestly say I can boil it down to one simple sentence:

Visual novels are culture.

I've used the phrase "language is culture" with my students many times before, but when I really stopped to think about it, it was the same for me with VNs. Visual novels aren't just games anymore, they are gateways into another culture that intrinsically motivate those around them. Sure, they may not always be rich in story or make much sense in the grand scope of things, but overall I can say that visual novels are one of the main reasons I wanted to teach English in Japan to begin with.

It all started with a DeviantART friend of mine introducing me to Katawa Shoujo. After that game visual novel reading became a hobby of mine, one I still enjoy to this day. I read all the "popular" games and learned about new ones when I finally found Fuwanovel. For me to say visual novels alone changed my life is an understatement.

It may seem like I'm kissing everyone's ass and singing the praises of everyone for all the land to hear, but in reality it is more than that. Visual novels made me interested in pursuing projects on this site, it made me interested in seeing the podcast stay alive, it made me interested in its people. Visual novels, no the entire fandom of the genre, are the people. Without the people you lose the excitement, you lose the joy of sharing a game with others, and you lose the force that breathes life into these games. Sure you can sit alone in your room and enjoy the fun of an awesome scene in a novel, but what good is it if you can't talk about how awesome it is to others? I'm not saying you need to share the experiences with every person you meet, but isn't it that much better when you yourself can say, "well shit, that game was amazing" and someone agrees?

Visual novels made me proud to talk about what I enjoy, it made me want to teach more Japanese students English, and it made me motivated to learn another language. The friends I met through this medium make me proud to talk about what I enjoy and not be ashamed. Sure, everyone can use the argument that "internet friends" aren't "true friends," but what good is that? To me some of the people I have met through the common interest of visual novels are incredible people. I may not share the same interests as them in some cases, but you're damn right they are pretty awesome to talk to and a joy to have met and keep in touch with outside of the net.

The people are the core, and the medium is the house that shelters them all. Visual novels impacted my life like I am sure they have other people, and I'm sure everyone has their own story to share.

This is a fun idea! It'll be a fun competition and will let us jazz out the joint for holidays, etc. Changing the logo is a breeze. The dimensions are, currently, 354px by 90px.
 
Anybody have ideas for the first competition? Best summer banner?
 
Also, I'd suggest we move this thread to the Improvements board. Of course, I'll wait for Batman's permission before doing so -- can't have him going off about the tyranny of the staff, again.

This is a fun idea! It'll be a fun competition and will let us jazz out the joint for holidays, etc. Changing the logo is a breeze. The dimensions are, currently, 354px by 90px.
 
Anybody have ideas for the first competition? Best summer banner?
 
Also, I'd suggest we move this thread to the Improvements board. Of course, I'll wait for Batman's permission before doing so -- can't have him going off about the tyranny of the staff, again.

My warmest birthday well-wishes on this Mareist of days!

Hey everybody,
 
Almost 90 posts! If you feel like this discussion has been going round-and-round in circles, then you should be glad you weren't party to the 2012 and 2013 discussions -- the first back-and-forth we had on Fuwanovel about hosting localized games had >200 replies and, if I remember right, was deleted. I still have minor PTSD thinking about it.
 
Let's all take a step back and look at this thread for a minute. We'll notice that there are many well-thought-out and well-presented arguments on both sides. We'll also notice that almost nobody has been swayed from one side to the other. Please allow me to state the obvious: This is a point of disagreement, and the two arguments aren't going to be reconciled no matter how long we go on. 
 
I tend to see this as a good thing: it means that I don't need to get emotional about the debate, and I don't need to take it personally on any level. I suggest everybody deescalate emotionally from the conflict.
 
 
 
 
Let's start with Aaeru.
People like to channel Aaeru (especially in this argument) because many remember and think of her as a sort of ancient, canonized, ultimate authority. I was around and an admin when the Fuwanovel policies were being decided, and Aaeru and I talked several times about this issue.
 
On the one hand Aaeru was(/is) an extreme pirate: she hated copyright, hated the idea of intellectual property, and wanted to put all VNs up for pirating. She was a pirate through-and-through -- to the point of once sharing with me some Australian Pirate Party propaganda  .
 
Yet, on the other hand, as Fuwanovel administrators she and I spoke about this issue more than once, and every time we came to the agreement that it's in Fuwanovel's best interest not to host licensed games. Aaeru wavered from time to time, but the policy was solidified and codified when Aaeru's DC III project was crushed by Gangamamer. Some of you remember that happening. Aaeru was crushed and it took several weeks for her to recover. I remember the long conversation she and I had during the weeks she was away from the site, recovering.
 
Anybody who knew Aaeru knew that she was a pirate to her core. Those that served with her as staff (we still have a few of them around), including myself (a co-admin), however know that she recognized and codified our current policy. Fuwanovel doesn't host licensed games. We generally drop the games within a few months of their announcement -- so long as progress on the translation is being made. 
 
 
 
 
 
Now I'm going to try and cut to the heart of the matter
This specific topic has shown that it really doesn't matter how many good reasons we put down on paper for either side. Good arguments aren't going to persuade the other side off the wall. Time and time again this issue has put a real and painful strain on the community. I'm sad to say that I've lost multiple staff members to this issue -- many have resigned over it, and it kills me to say that some are threatening to leave over it again.
 
This topic has repeatedly caused distress to the community. That is why we have a policy -- to prevent confusion for members and staff alike; and to give clear direction as new situations arise. That's the reason why we make them. One of my roles is to make sure we aren't forgetting about the foundations of the site, and ensure that we stay true to them. Fuwanovel's policy is that we don't host licensed games on the site.
 
 
 
 
 
Brass Tacks
I've been discussing the actual logistics of this issue with the staff and we're currently discussing how to proceed. If the decision is to abide by our longstanding policy, then I want to assure the community that the torrents are not going to disappear overnight. There will be notice about the plan and clear communication. 
 
I've read this entire thread twice, and I've spent a lot of time ensuring that I understand points raised both here and in the staff forums. I want to assure everybody that your voices are heard, and the staff and I will value further points raised here.
 
At some point a decision must be made, however, and experience has taught me that there will be anger and hurt feelings regardless of what's chosen. I urge everybody to remember that we're all here for the love of a hobby, and that Fuwanovel's core is a respectful and friendly place to celebrate visual novels. This decision isn't the end of the world, and won't substantially change your Fuwanovel experience. I encourage everybody -- myself included -- to watch yourselves and your discourse and make sure we aren't being explosively hyperbolic in the aftermath.

Hey everybody,
 
Almost 90 posts! If you feel like this discussion has been going round-and-round in circles, then you should be glad you weren't party to the 2012 and 2013 discussions -- the first back-and-forth we had on Fuwanovel about hosting localized games had >200 replies and, if I remember right, was deleted. I still have minor PTSD thinking about it.
 
Let's all take a step back and look at this thread for a minute. We'll notice that there are many well-thought-out and well-presented arguments on both sides. We'll also notice that almost nobody has been swayed from one side to the other. Please allow me to state the obvious: This is a point of disagreement, and the two arguments aren't going to be reconciled no matter how long we go on. 
 
I tend to see this as a good thing: it means that I don't need to get emotional about the debate, and I don't need to take it personally on any level. I suggest everybody deescalate emotionally from the conflict.
 
 
 
 
Let's start with Aaeru.
People like to channel Aaeru (especially in this argument) because many remember and think of her as a sort of ancient, canonized, ultimate authority. I was around and an admin when the Fuwanovel policies were being decided, and Aaeru and I talked several times about this issue.
 
On the one hand Aaeru was(/is) an extreme pirate: she hated copyright, hated the idea of intellectual property, and wanted to put all VNs up for pirating. She was a pirate through-and-through -- to the point of once sharing with me some Australian Pirate Party propaganda  .
 
Yet, on the other hand, as Fuwanovel administrators she and I spoke about this issue more than once, and every time we came to the agreement that it's in Fuwanovel's best interest not to host licensed games. Aaeru wavered from time to time, but the policy was solidified and codified when Aaeru's DC III project was crushed by Gangamamer. Some of you remember that happening. Aaeru was crushed and it took several weeks for her to recover. I remember the long conversation she and I had during the weeks she was away from the site, recovering.
 
Anybody who knew Aaeru knew that she was a pirate to her core. Those that served with her as staff (we still have a few of them around), including myself (a co-admin), however know that she recognized and codified our current policy. Fuwanovel doesn't host licensed games. We generally drop the games within a few months of their announcement -- so long as progress on the translation is being made. 
 
 
 
 
 
Now I'm going to try and cut to the heart of the matter
This specific topic has shown that it really doesn't matter how many good reasons we put down on paper for either side. Good arguments aren't going to persuade the other side off the wall. Time and time again this issue has put a real and painful strain on the community. I'm sad to say that I've lost multiple staff members to this issue -- many have resigned over it, and it kills me to say that some are threatening to leave over it again.
 
This topic has repeatedly caused distress to the community. That is why we have a policy -- to prevent confusion for members and staff alike; and to give clear direction as new situations arise. That's the reason why we make them. One of my roles is to make sure we aren't forgetting about the foundations of the site, and ensure that we stay true to them. Fuwanovel's policy is that we don't host licensed games on the site.
 
 
 
 
 
Brass Tacks
I've been discussing the actual logistics of this issue with the staff and we're currently discussing how to proceed. If the decision is to abide by our longstanding policy, then I want to assure the community that the torrents are not going to disappear overnight. There will be notice about the plan and clear communication. 
 
I've read this entire thread twice, and I've spent a lot of time ensuring that I understand points raised both here and in the staff forums. I want to assure everybody that your voices are heard, and the staff and I will value further points raised here.
 
At some point a decision must be made, however, and experience has taught me that there will be anger and hurt feelings regardless of what's chosen. I urge everybody to remember that we're all here for the love of a hobby, and that Fuwanovel's core is a respectful and friendly place to celebrate visual novels. This decision isn't the end of the world, and won't substantially change your Fuwanovel experience. I encourage everybody -- myself included -- to watch yourselves and your discourse and make sure we aren't being explosively hyperbolic in the aftermath.

Hey everybody,
 
Almost 90 posts! If you feel like this discussion has been going round-and-round in circles, then you should be glad you weren't party to the 2012 and 2013 discussions -- the first back-and-forth we had on Fuwanovel about hosting localized games had >200 replies and, if I remember right, was deleted. I still have minor PTSD thinking about it.
 
Let's all take a step back and look at this thread for a minute. We'll notice that there are many well-thought-out and well-presented arguments on both sides. We'll also notice that almost nobody has been swayed from one side to the other. Please allow me to state the obvious: This is a point of disagreement, and the two arguments aren't going to be reconciled no matter how long we go on. 
 
I tend to see this as a good thing: it means that I don't need to get emotional about the debate, and I don't need to take it personally on any level. I suggest everybody deescalate emotionally from the conflict.
 
 
 
 
Let's start with Aaeru.
People like to channel Aaeru (especially in this argument) because many remember and think of her as a sort of ancient, canonized, ultimate authority. I was around and an admin when the Fuwanovel policies were being decided, and Aaeru and I talked several times about this issue.
 
On the one hand Aaeru was(/is) an extreme pirate: she hated copyright, hated the idea of intellectual property, and wanted to put all VNs up for pirating. She was a pirate through-and-through -- to the point of once sharing with me some Australian Pirate Party propaganda  .
 
Yet, on the other hand, as Fuwanovel administrators she and I spoke about this issue more than once, and every time we came to the agreement that it's in Fuwanovel's best interest not to host licensed games. Aaeru wavered from time to time, but the policy was solidified and codified when Aaeru's DC III project was crushed by Gangamamer. Some of you remember that happening. Aaeru was crushed and it took several weeks for her to recover. I remember the long conversation she and I had during the weeks she was away from the site, recovering.
 
Anybody who knew Aaeru knew that she was a pirate to her core. Those that served with her as staff (we still have a few of them around), including myself (a co-admin), however know that she recognized and codified our current policy. Fuwanovel doesn't host licensed games. We generally drop the games within a few months of their announcement -- so long as progress on the translation is being made. 
 
 
 
 
 
Now I'm going to try and cut to the heart of the matter
This specific topic has shown that it really doesn't matter how many good reasons we put down on paper for either side. Good arguments aren't going to persuade the other side off the wall. Time and time again this issue has put a real and painful strain on the community. I'm sad to say that I've lost multiple staff members to this issue -- many have resigned over it, and it kills me to say that some are threatening to leave over it again.
 
This topic has repeatedly caused distress to the community. That is why we have a policy -- to prevent confusion for members and staff alike; and to give clear direction as new situations arise. That's the reason why we make them. One of my roles is to make sure we aren't forgetting about the foundations of the site, and ensure that we stay true to them. Fuwanovel's policy is that we don't host licensed games on the site.
 
 
 
 
 
Brass Tacks
I've been discussing the actual logistics of this issue with the staff and we're currently discussing how to proceed. If the decision is to abide by our longstanding policy, then I want to assure the community that the torrents are not going to disappear overnight. There will be notice about the plan and clear communication. 
 
I've read this entire thread twice, and I've spent a lot of time ensuring that I understand points raised both here and in the staff forums. I want to assure everybody that your voices are heard, and the staff and I will value further points raised here.
 
At some point a decision must be made, however, and experience has taught me that there will be anger and hurt feelings regardless of what's chosen. I urge everybody to remember that we're all here for the love of a hobby, and that Fuwanovel's core is a respectful and friendly place to celebrate visual novels. This decision isn't the end of the world, and won't substantially change your Fuwanovel experience. I encourage everybody -- myself included -- to watch yourselves and your discourse and make sure we aren't being explosively hyperbolic in the aftermath.