Appendix – Author's Notes
A Compilation of All Author's Notes
From
In the Arms of Destruction
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That's just the fancy title It's just a list of explanations, alibis and excuses I put up for my readers annually.
Heck, yeah, I'm smiling right now. Read up
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Contents
A. The Inevitable Author's Note Version One (11/5/2000) [A Must-Read Before Venturing Further]
B. The Inevitable Author's Note – The Sequel (04/17/2001) [To Clear Some Things Up]
C. The Inevitable Author's Note – Finale (04/25/2002) [The End?]
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The Inevitable Author's Note Version One
- A Must Read Before Venturing Further -
Okay guys, I know it's been a while. I thank you for taking some precious time reading this, (if you are) now. Anyway, I just have to clarify a few things, as well as announce and denounce some, before some of you start flaming me. (-.-;) Erm, heh, heh.
Chapters
Again, I'm sorry if I take time to update. I tell you, I've finished many chapters already, but I'm not yet content, and sometimes reworks are very drastic. I can't afford posting drafts either because final versions are hardly read -- and believe me, changes can be that drastic. As of now, I've paused in my works upon watching Endless Waltz, and, boy, there goes my story. The Gundams do get destroyed in the end, and they have taken my numerous ideas with them. It basically ruins my plot -- you get the idea. But nevertheless, I'm finding ways to work it out, pray for me that I could finish. It's rather hard.
The Term 'OOC'
Okay, so some of you may think that Hilde's a bit too serious and remorseful, while Heero goes overboard with his anger and sometimes sudden vulnerability. Or maybe Noin's finely worded teasing session with Sally (I do admit I wrote it in a jiffy) was surprising... So, explanations.
Well, I guess this fic strictly follows the TV's outline. Where in there is no definite characterization of Hilde and her past, given the few times she appeared, significant as they may be. We all know that she is sacrificial (you bet we do) and that she seems in love with Duo (I don't know, it seems entirely platonic at first, and I think she's not that kind of get-go girl who easily allows herself to be, um, flat on her back). The basic word that defines her is 'Spunk,' more so proven by her appearance. She seems tomboyish, she's a hacker, she's a soldier, she can pilot mobile suits with style. She must be pretty cool since Duo decides to stay with her
Well, I guess that much can be said. And from these observations came the fics where she is just so in love with Duo... sometimes she can be stubborn and dominating but she really loves our braided hero (erm, Heero? Hey, it was a joke!). And I really enjoyed these stories where she's just our adorable pixie. Heck, they're the majority of fics I read, and I have no complaint against that. But, given, there should be more freedom in characterizing her in fics. I mean, sure, she's got spunk, but is that limited to her encounters with Duo? Are you sure she's that easily swayed by him, or that much dependent on him? I personally think she would go slow, transcending from their carefully built friendship to something much more. She badly needs security, and she finds that in their friendship, and moving into a deeper relationship can ruin that friendship. Aside from that, Duo doesn't usually come off as a serious guy. And then there are some fics where they immediately go for it. No personal complaints again, mind you - I like reading them. But sometimes, she comes around as a lovesick tomboy whose life revolves around his.
It's not limited to that, isn't it? I mean, the show doesn't necessarily dictate that she should be like that. What is she really like when upset? Has she ever had problems with her family? Or was her family murdered to begin with? How did she end up in OZ, or if she ever lived in Germany -- that kind of stuff. Ah, the wonders of underrated characters.
Which is why it comes down to this. Here, Hilde is depicted as having a long hidden dangerous involvement in the past, quite possible for our 'pixie' friend, having had no sufficient info about her past and surprisingly reaching the top of her batch in OZ despite her age, and size. There's no mention of family, or origin... and not enough time to confirm or deny fan suspicions, so it's not entirely impossible. Anyway, back to the topic, with her cheerful disposition, it seems that she is somewhat a dreamer (I think) and might have easily buried this so-called secret. And now, her past has come back with a very enormous claim on her. How do you expect will she react? Smile, stomp her foot and whine 'DUO!'?
Being independent (no family, OZ topper, small girl -- looks like a boy at that, just a recap), I wouldn't think so, hence the seriousness and the hiatus. Considering her problems... well, I don't want to give away much.
And when it comes to Heero, some may say, 'Too harsh' or 'Too easy.' Well, this isn't the normal 'changed' Heero, done satisfactorily by Relena. Alternate Universe, her healing influence had never happened here, albeit a soft rejection. What have we got? An emotionally sensitive, hurt Heero who doesn't know where to go, and particularly doesn't care about anything and anyone. He is confused by Hilde, and so frustrations come by.
But don't worry, if the out-of-'characterness' gets to you. This is just the beginning. Things will slowly take its course, and pretty soon, you'll get their normal selves as they learn to relax, accept, and live with the situation. Pretty soon enough, you'll have Hilde singing in the shower, wearing her beret cap with extreme stubbornness and pride, and Heero grunting with control. Ok?
Speaking of Which...
In the future? Well, I do not know - it will take time. But, rest assured, I will try to finish this (and a whole lotta other series stored in my notebook). How would it end? I'm not sure, I haven't outlined the final part yet. I'm not even sure who ends up with who. An alternate paring fic doesn't necessarily mean they end up together, right? I love Duo, and him and Hilde just seem perfect together, but the twist with Heero is equally captivating -- how? That's my job. Just stand by and watch.
Erm,
More exciting events soon, though, as the two would soon start training together, and the absence of their respective loved ones fade. Arguments may come and go but one more may change Heero's life. The importance of Hilde's beret is seen and Heero goes through numerous heights to retrieve it once it gets lost, and the real value of his newfound friend will soon reveal itself to him as challenges, sickness and threat notes come their way.
And Finally
Thanks to all those who supported this fic, especially those who emailed me (Sabacat, specifically, for waiting for the third part patiently) when I thought no one approved of the pairing. Big gratitude to you guys - this story wouldn't go on without you. And, ya, I'm working on it. TY's lots. And for all readers, please drop in comments... I really need them.
Thanks Again and Expect More
Yah! More author's notes... gulp.
But anyway, thanks. Smile, pray to God and be happy!
God Bless,
Annabelle
11/5/2k
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The Inevitable Author's Note - The Sequel
- To Clear Some Things Up-
(ahahah -- erm, pardon)
I tend to compile all my notes in these pages, so guys better listen, and
pardon the occasional versions.
Hello again guys. This gal has returned with another 'author's note,' this time to clarify some mixed up things. I know I have neglected to explain some facts, and you would admit that there are many factors that may have confused you. Well, here they are.
Wufei's Gundam
When I has started the fanfic, my only basis was the knowledge that the guys had sent their Gundams to the sun, all save for Wufei. I had written about up to part four or five by then, and everything was abruptly halted when I stumbled upon an Endless Waltz summary (sadly, my VCD's are only limited to two episodes, without translations, mind you). And heck, all of their Gundams are gone, what would happen to this fanfic? But I knew I had to move on, and thus edited parts of the former story. But I could not remove Wufei's possession of his Gundam, because this fact plays a very vital role in the future, and the guys need the assurance of the presence of a familiar mecha, that is, the Gundam. They might have to refer to it in the future. I had hoped no one would notice, but a review in fanfiction.net indicated otherwise (thanks! ^.^), and I'm glad anyway to get to explain this to you. I acknowledge the truth that Wufei's Gundam is supposed to be gone.
The Language and Slang Words
The German Thing
In my story, I'm sure most of you have more or less stumbled on Hilde's angry, heavily accented words. And I guess you guys are probably confused about some of them. I have forgotten to give a key to understand her words. This guide would really help you, especially on reading future chapters.
As a pre-note, I admit that I'm not even sure if my German phrases and words are right. I only get what I have from freetranslations.com and a couple of weeks' experience in Switzerland, which is mainly a German-speaking nation. Feel free to correct me if you feel it is necessary. I have written down words as they are pronounced in German for effect.
- PRONUNCIATION
Germans
usually replace:
W's with V's,
V's with F's
--when they pronounce words. Likewise, they pronounce the letter Z as TS. And
'er' is somewhat said as 'a' (for example, if a man's name is Schneider, it is
pronounced as 'Schneida'). Some T's are silenced (you won't here the 'T' in
'cannot').
Hence,
"Look, mon, if you cinna stop, I vould hafta hit ye. And by Deutschland, I
vould enjoy it--so help me now and leaf yer 'comments' fer later."
Means, "Look, man, if you cannot stop, I would have to hit you. And by
Deutschland, I would enjoy doing it--so help me now and leave your 'comments'
for later.
- WORDS AND PHRASES
*
From Part 4: "Ich bin Hilde Schbeiker, kein Heidi Van Schnell." - I
am Hilde Schbeiker, not Heidi Van Schnell."
* From Part 7: "Sie sind ein Narr." - You are a fool
"Danke" - German for "Thank You."
Therefore,
Augen - Eyes (you will see this in the future)
Bier - Beer (Ich mag Bier - I like beer)
Geld - Money
Große - Large/Great (Sometimes used as 'Oh great!')
Halt - Stop
Hund - Dog (Hilde uses this to insult some men)
Liebe - Love
Mädchen - Girl
Mutter - Mother
Narr - Fool
Katze - Cat
Schatz - this directly translates to 'treasure.' Germans use this as a term of
endearment, much like 'sweetheart,' or 'darling.'
Schönheit - Beauty (Hilde would use this sometimes as an expression, think 'Oh
goody' said in a dry fashion)
I hope that cleared up some things. It won't be hard to get their meaning due to context clues in the sentences actually. But, just to be sure, I hope you read them.
The Japanese Words
I'm sure you're all used to this. These are taken from Dot's Japanese 101:
Arigatou
- Thank you
Gomen - Sorry (+Nasai - very)
Onegai - Please
Hai
- Yes
Iie- No
Kisama
- don't ask, a very bad word (I won't be using it again, I thought it was like
'Shimatta' but I was very, very wrong)
Kuso - Damn (OK guys, curses will slowly dissolve sooner in the story. No need
for them, they don't do anything good)
Masaka - Impossible (or: You don't say! No way! Can it be?)
Matte - Wait, slow down
Ne - Placed at the end of a sentence means, 'Right?' (Confirmation
Shimatta - Drat (or: Darn! Oh no!)
Yamero or Dame - Stop (abrupt command form, also yamete)
Anata
- You (when a woman says this to a male loved one/husband means 'darling.')
Sensei - Teacher
In The Future
I guess I made a slight mistake in naming Part 7b as it is. It would be easier if I had named it part 8... it could stand alone on itself. But aside from this, I will be adding an interlude after the real part 8 or 9, depending on how long it would be. In the Arms of Destruction, Interlude One: Of Dreams and Death is my version of Duo and Hilde's story before this fanfic ever happened. This take will be quite different, since it will include not only Duo and Hilde, but seven more adorably protective and unique men. I'm taking the opportunity to include Howard and the other Sweepers. But now, I realize that it seems to be getting too long, and could take up to forty pages so I might have to split it up.
I guess this story (In the Arms of Destruction) is taking more than I have expected. I didn't plan to exceed past ten chapters now I seem to go on to up to sixteen. I'm not sure. And with my slow progress and busy classes, I only pray and hope to finish it.
I now promise, no lemons, kay?
Aside from the one above, I will make a prequel to this, a story involving Relena Darlian and her so-called new flame. It might sound mediocre now but I -am- excited, mainly because I like the guy so much. Jonathan 'Ethan' Boudreaux came into Relena Peacecraft's life and shattered it. His known differences from her ideals and his mysterious personality confused her. Intelligent and street smart at the same time, this handsome heir had been the intrigue of the society. And his righteous arrogance and witty, domineering words warned her, and yet attracted her just the same. But she soon discovers that this 'President's son' wasn't any airy aristocrat, but an illegitimate son whose bastard life experiences and values will soon drastically affect her own life. Watch for it, okay?
Calling All Fan artists!
Can you guys do me a favor and draw some pictures? I hardly find good alternate- pairing pictures in the net and that, well, sucks. I can't use any pics to create more graphics. If you really could, please send them to me. It would really help, a lot.
...And Authors!
If you have anything you'd like me to post or review, email me at [email protected] okay? I would really appreciate seeing your works. (I don't mean alternate pairings only -- I mean all)
Finally, Thanks
I would like to thank (oh heck, I sound like an Academy Award winner, haha) Ashley, first of all, for putting up this fic at her site (visit it! -pardon, I love plugging the site, http://www.envy.nu/tasukigirl) The Alternate Universe. I'd like to thank Sabacat too, for the support, comments, and for working such a wonderful site. Then I would like to thank Lady N, whose comments boosted my ego--er, scratch that, I meant, inspired me to work harder. And also for all of the guys who reviewed my fic at fanfiction.net. You guys are the reason this fic exists! I would like to extend my thanks to Anime Princess, and to Dante (I'm sorry I wasn't able to reply) for his great words, who, in my laziness and at the height of my Writer's Block, made me continue writing.
Thank you very much, guys! Smile and pray to God!
Annabelle
April 17, 2k1
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The Inevitable Author's Notes - Finale
The End?
Yes, people If you've read Chapter 13, it is the final chapter to In the Arms of Destruction.
Book One, that is.
(Book what?)
Yes.
In a bid to organize things, I've decided to split the series into three books. In the Arms of Destruction, as so named, is Book One, and is now officially complete. It will continue in Book 2 (More like a booklet, for all its apparent shortness), In the Arms of Destruction: Evidence of Treason. Book 3, the last book, as of yet temporarily titled (In the Arms of Destruction: The War), is the finale to the series--another epic, that is.
SPOILER SPACE!
Evidence of Treason is focused on Heero and Hilde's journey to Earth and their (short-lived) days of residence, as documented by various people, and for once, not by the two of them. It is a series of letters, phone conversations, and recorded rants. It also records the Preventers' search for the two wayward soldiers, as well as Black Star's ceaselessly disturbing tracking.
The War is self explanatory, right? A clash of arms, values, hearts and emotions. You'll understand soon.
Okay, you can all look now.
Thank you very much to all those who have come this far with me. I hope you will continue to support the rest of this fanfic. Keep the alternate fandom alive, :)
To Sabacat, Samantha, and Ashley, thank you very much, you made this story possible. To Ingga, Skeyeta, Rogue Angel Barton, Lady Banshee, and the rest of my reviewers--THANK YOU very very much! You were my inspiring force. To my sis, too, who positively threatens me whenever I end up torturing Heero. You're no eloquent critic, but thank you. Hope you'll all continue reading! Love you!
Thank you God!
April 25, 2002