#but there are only so many sg text posts you can do before it's time to bring out the queen

[donttouchtheneednoggle]

yet more Stargate text posts:)

(part 1) (part 2) (part 4)

[requiemforthepoets]

turning page 𖦹 CS55

PAIRINGS: carlos sainz x female!reader

SUMMARY: you never knew that you’ll find love at the least place where you’d likely go to.

AUTHOR’S NOTE: i posted this before, but deleted it heh so thought i’ll post it again. this fic was inspired by ‘crazy rich asians’, if you haven’t watched it, go and try to watch it. this whole fic is 7.4k long, so i decided to split it lol 7.4k is already long for me. did not proofread, so sorry for the typos and enjoy!

*** ik sg gp happened first from the aus gp, but just for the plot, ok? 😭

REMINDER: this is purely fiction, the way how the character is portrayed in my story does not reflect to the person that is portraying my character in real life. always separate fiction from reality, and do not respost or copy my work in any way.

WORD COUNT: 3.7k

WARNINGS: typos and inaccuracies

You and Carlos met in London. You had decided to move to London to be more independent, and entered Cambridge University to pursue your career in law. You had met him in one of his many races, during the British Grand Prix in Silverstone, where your best friend had managed to drag you in, and being one of the VIPs in the event, since your best friend’s father is one of the big names in the Formula One. Your best friend actually knows Carlos personally, so when she introduced you to Carlos, you had no idea of who he is, except that he drives fast cars.

The knowledge that you have with him nor about F1 is completely zero, plus it was your first time of hearing his name, and you don’t want to embarrass yourself in front of him, especially that he is very good looking. But when you had honestly told him that you don’t really know him at all nor have any idea of what F1 is, he was really chill about him. Carlos doesn’t mind that you don’t know him, it even made him feel better because at least someone treated him normal for once, for him, you are a breath of fresh air from his hectic life. From that interaction, you two had unexpectedly clicked.

It was months of texts and calls, back and forth. Carlos was always away since it’s racing season, and he would always go from one country to another, and at the same time, you are also busy attending your classes, making it impossible for you to attend his races. But you would spend off season together, spending time with friends and families. It was after your graduation in law school that he had finally asked you to be his girlfriend. For you, Carlos asking you to be his girlfriend is already the best graduation present that you had ever received.

Carlos is a well known figure, so it is mutually decided that you would keep your relationship under the wraps for the meantime, doing the best to keep your relationship private, though everyone knows that Carlos is officially off the market, it’s not a secret. It’s just people never really caught the two of you in public—that is until a year into your relationship, you had been spotted attending one of his races, during the Australian Grand Prix, to support him, and when he finished the race in P1, you were there waiting by the parc fermé for him, with Ferrari’s whole team.

He rushed towards you as soon as he can, removing his helmet, engulfing you in a hug and kissing you deeply. That action from him is what had solidified your relationship, and you both had received nothing but incredible amount of support from his fans, you couldn’t really care less about some of the negative comments that was being thrown around. As long as you both love each other, that is only what truly matters the most.

Here’s the thing, Carlos had already introduced you to his family, and his mother, Reyes, had never been thrilled that his son is dating a very gorgeous, amazing, and successful woman. But it made Carlos think, how come he has never met your family or know something about your family? He has seen a few pictures of them in your apartment, but you rarely talk about your family with him. He knew nothing of your family’s background, but that was until he was scrolling one time on his twitter account, and saw a post of a photo of him and you that was taken from his instagram, in a thread explaining on how the both of you are a powerful couple.

In the thread, it was cited that he is not dating an average person. In fact, he is dating a socialite, an icon, and an heir that is set to inherit a fortune on both sides of your parents. Carlos had brought up this up with you, and you explained it to him—he was a bit sad that you hid it from him, but fully understand it afterwards. So the very next day, you two found yourself on a plane ride back to Singapore, and had arranged a schedule for him to meet your family, officially. He was a nervous wreck. Even if you both came from the same background—grew up in wealth, it is different for Carlos since he was brought up in a European way, while you in an Asian way, and in Carlos’ scale, it is both seated at the opposite ends of the scale. But you assured him plenty of times that everything will be alright. Not missing on teasing him about how nervous he is meeting your family.

“Amor, it is not funny! I can’t believe you’re making fun of my suffering. I’m about to meet your family, who wouldn’t be nervous?” He whined while nuzzling his face on your neck, pressing soft kisses.

“Carlos, you have nothing to be nervous about! My family are nice, okay? Yes, they would intimidate you a little bit, but what they don’t know is they don’t have anything against your incredible charms!” You smiled.

Lifting his head from your neck and looking at you directly in your eyes, “what if they don’t want me for you? And gave a million dollars just to break up with you?”

“Love,” you laughed, “stop with the nonsense! You’ve been watching too much dramas.”

“Fine,” he groveled, “but please hold my hand.” You giggled, and softly grabbed his hand and kissing the back of it, squeezing it tightly in assurance.

When you had introduced Carlos to your family, they had mixed opinions about him. Though your brothers find it cool that you’re able to bag the Carlos Sainz Jr., a famous F1 driver, considering that your brothers are a big fan of formula one, and had attended different grand prix in the past. When you told them in a straight face that you don’t know anything about F1 other than it’s a race, they had educated you about the whole formula one shebang—in which had been a lot for you to digest everything, but thank god for Carlos! Still, some parts are still confusing for you. They had questioned Carlos’ intensions with you, like the big brothers that they are, but when they realize that he’s a nice and down to earth guy, a few drinks and bonding over golf, your brothers knew that he’s a keeper, and have their full blessing and support.

When it was time for your parent’s judgment. Just like your brothers, they are skeptical of him. You had been through a long list of relationships, and each relationships that you had back then never ends in a good way, it’s either a messy breakup where you would need all of your brothers or breakup through texts. Some guys only dated you to benefit from your family’s connections, though it’s most not likely to happen since they know that Carlos came from money, just like you.

You were privileged enough in life, and you acknowledge that, being born with a golden spoon in your mouth, and being born into one of the wealthiest and influential family in Asia, you can say that you’re quite well known—a name that is very well known in the upper echelons of society, though you never really flaunt it like typical wealthy people do, and not to mention that you are basically the darling sweetheart of Singapore. Some people would say that you no longer need to lift a finger because everything would be handed to you in one snap or to work a day in your life, since you’re already set for life, but that’s not how you see it.

You are the only woman, among the sibling of four, so it makes sense how your family is very protective of you, they want their daughter to be with someone who is deserving of their princess. People had always expected you ending up marrying a person who came from the same ethnicity, since it was how it goes in your family, but your parents had already thrown that traditional way of thinking out of the window, and had decided that their children are free to love any person of their choosing. Eventually, they warmed up to Carlos, your father had bonded with him through golf, just like your brothers. They can clearly see it, bright as a day, that Carlos is a really good match for you, and that he makes you very happy.

Carlos knew that you’ll be flying back home to Singapore to visit and spend time with your family for a week, and he was okay with it. It was off season, and he apologized that he won’t be able to come with you since he wanted to spend time with his family. But what you didn’t know, Carlos didn’t tell you that he will be going to Singapore to surprise you, and to ask your parent’s approval to a million dollar question that would seal the deal.

He was a nervous wreck, again. Carlos had been a nervous wreck in the whole duration of his flight. It was like meeting your parents all over again, but this time, for a different reason. He nervously fidgeted with his watch as he stood outside of the main entrance of your family’s mansion. He’s been there for a minute or two now, silently practicing his speech on how he would approach your parents and ask them the blessing for your hand in marriage, which he had been planning for a month now. Taking a deep breath, Carlos finally rang the doorbell, he just stood there and was waiting anxiously for the door to open.

When the door opened, Carlos was greeted by your mother, who welcomed him with a warm smile and hugging him tightly. She then quickly ushered Carlos inside, as he stepped inside of your family home, and no matter how many time he had been in your family home, he will always be struck by grandeur of your home whenever you both visit your family. Walls that are adorned with beautiful artworks, a big framed picture of your parents, brothers, and you, furnitures are always plush and comfortable.

Your mother led him into the living room, where he was greeted by your brothers and other family members—aunties and uncles, which are present for their friday night mahjong. Carlos did not expect it at all, well in his defense, he forgot that it’s friday, and that your relatives would always come over on fridays to play mahjong. Everyone had exchanged pleasantries, and your grandparents as well who had just joined everyone in the living room, coming from their afternoon tea by the garden.

“Henry, Carlos is here!” Your mother had called out for your father.

“Carlos my boy! What brings you here today?” Your father asked as he descended from the stairs, “(y/n) is still out with her friends right now, but she’ll be back by dinner. She told us that you’re back in Spain, spending some time with your family.”

“And you’re timing couldn’t gotten even more better! We are cooking your favourite dish for dinner!” Your mother beamed excitedly.

“Mamá y papá,” Your parents had insisted on Carlos calling them mom and dad, because that’s how they love Carlos so much, “I didn’t tell her that I will be coming to Singapore, because it’s a surprise.”

Your mother, who’s dramatic as ever, let out a gasp and squealed. Your mother is the biggest supporter of your relationship, well all of your families are biggest supporter of both of your relationship, but when it comes to your mom…well you can say that she’s the president of the carlos and (y/n) fanclub. She always post photos and silly videos of you and carlos on her instagram during family vacations. Basically providing the fans some contents they want to see.

“I also wanted to talk to you about something, before she gets back.” Your mother nodded.

“Come, sit!” She motioned Carlos to sit.

All of them sat down on the couch at the same time, Carlos sitting in front, facing your parents. He took a deep breath and straightened his posture.

“I came here today to surprise (y/n), and to ask for your blessing,” your mother covered her mouth in shock, “a blessing for me to marry (y/n).”

Both of your parents have different reactions, and your grandparents just smiled widely at Carlos. Your mother let out a squeal again, while your father was serious and carefully listened. He motioned Carlos to continue.

“(Y/N) means everything to me, and I can’t imagine spending the rest of my life without her, I can’t see myself with anyone other than her, and I would be honored if you would allow me to marry her.” Carlos smiled softly.

Your grandmother turned to your grandfather, who then turned to your parents, began speaking about something in your native language. Carlos felt his heart beating faster as he waited for their response. They then turned now to Carlos and nodded at him happily. Your grandparents approves of him marrying you, while your father directly made an eye contact with Carlos.

“Carlos, throughout the years of your relationship with our (y/n), we watched your relationship with each other grow. We have seen how happy you make each other, how you make our daughter very happy. She had never experienced genuine happiness in her past relationships, and you pretty much know why. We love her so much, she’s our baby girl, our one and only princess. Seeing her being happy and well taken care of the man she loves the most, it’s enough for us.”

“You are already a part of our family, been with us through every family celebrations and vacations. So it’s a yes, we give you our full blessing for you to marry our daughter.” Your father smiled.

They gave Carlos a tight hug, and he felt the weight has been finally lifted off of his shoulders, as he smiled with gratitude, feeling sense of excitement and joy. Carlos knows that both of your future together would be bright and full of love. Now, he couldn’t wait to propose to you.

“Thank you so much. I promise to take care of (y/n).”

“I know you will, son. I know you will. I trust you with my daughter.” Your father smiled, and hugged him, patting his back.

Your mother squealed again in happiness, calling out everyone, telling them the great news. They had rushed out to the living room and abandoned their mahjong session for a while and gathered in the living room.

“(Y/N) and Carlos are getting married!”

There was series of cheering, some are shouting and jumping of happiness. Your brothers rushed to Carlos and squeezed him in a tight hug. In the midst of the exciting festivities that are happening, your family did not notice you coming home. You just stared at the scene that is happening in front of you. Your parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles, cheering, and your brothers jumping up and down while hugging Carlos, chanting like they’ve just won a game.

Wait…Carlos?!

“Uh, what exactly is happening here? I just got home and then I returned to a party, without me?” You chuckled.

“(Y/N)!” Your brothers yelled, and came barreling towards you, engulfing you in a hug.

“What? Why are you all acting like I just came home from war?”

“Oh honey, you don’t know what’s coming.”

“Mom, shush!” Your oldest brother, Collin, silenced your mom, raising both of her hands in surrender.

“My Carlito, what are your doing here? I thought you’re back in Spain.” You smiled at him.

Carlos slowly made his way towards you. He hugged you, arms wrapping tightly around your waist, as you gave him a soft kiss on the lips. Your hands gently caressing his nape.

“Surprise,” he whispered and smiled softly at you, “I didn’t tell you that I will be flying here because I wanted to surprise you, mi amor. It has been way too long and I’m already (y/n) deprived. You do know that I need some loving and kisses from you, it is a main Carlos necessity, and you can’t give me that when I’m in Spain. So here I am.”

“Well, you did surprise me.” You giggled in between kisses.

“I’m glad, cariño, because we’re gonna be heading off soon to the swiss alps for our honeymoon.”

You laughed at his reply, “honeymoon? You gotta marry me first, Mr. Sainz!”

“And I will be going to, soon.” He smirked.

“Better do it fast, we don’t have forever.” You joked, causing both of you to laugh.

At that moment, it felt like it was just the two of you in the room, forgetting about your family in the background. You still can’t believe it, that you’re so in love with this man, and he’s so in love with you. You wouldn’t trade it for the whole world, you can’t see yourself loving another man that is not Carlos. Making a mental note to thank your friend for dragging you to the race and introducing you to Carlos.

It was during the Singaporean Grand Prix that he proposed to you. Carlos couldn’t think what is even more perfect than the idea he has right now, and he plans on proposing after the race. Both of your families are in attendance during the race, and they all have an idea of what is about to happen, except you. He had managed to coaxed the other drivers into his plan, and they had never been more excited for it, to be a part of the proposal.

Carlos had finished the race in P1, and you had never been more proud of him. Just like years ago, you were waiting for him at the parc fermé with the whole team, and soon as he saw you, he ran towards you, removing his helmet and kissing you deeply. You were beyond proud of him, words cannot simply express how proud you are of him. Your interaction was short lived when he was pulled for an interview, but he was able to tell you to meet him at his driver’s room after.

As soon as everything died down and the world is already quiet, Carlos softly took your hand and lead you down the circuit, a little bit far so the area that you were in is peaceful and quiet. Once you reached the spot he planned on doing the proposal, he turns to face you, and as he look deeply into your eyes, you can feel the wave of love, gratitude, and pure adoration washing over you. You are the person Carlos wants to spend the rest of his life with, and he knows that he have to make his proposal perfect.

Unbeknownst to you, the rest of the guys are just around the area, even your families. They are just waiting for Carlos to pop the million dollar question to you. He took a deep breath and began to speak.

“Mi amor,” he began, “ever since we first met, I know that you are the one for me. I know it’s a bit cliche, but it was love at first sight to me. You don’t know how much joy and happiness you had brought into my life, and I can’t imagine my future without you in it or loving someone that is not you.” You already have an idea of what is going on, and you are trying your best to hold your tears.

“I know that we have had our ups and downs, a continuous roller coaster rides of emotions, but I do believe that together we can overcome any obstacles that the world would throw at us. I want to spend the rest of my life with you, amor. Making you happy, supporting you with every decision you make, and cherishing every moment that we have together.”

Carlos reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box. Your eyes widened because you know that velvet box so well. It was a possession that your mother owns, and ever since you were a child, you had already been begging your mother to give it to you, but she would always tell you that that you’ll have it when the time is right—and right now, you can’t believe it. Carlos opened the box, revealing a beautiful emerald ring. The emerald sparkling against the soft lights around you.

“So, what do you say, cariño? Will you do the honor of making me the happiest man alive and marry me?” Carlos smiled widely.

You noticed Charles and Lando at the distance, right at the back of Carlos holding a poster that says “will you marry me?” and your oldest brother, Collin, holding the phone and taking so many pictures, and your two other brothers, Nick and Philip, taking a video, recording the beautiful moment.

Carlos hold out the ring to you, and you can’t hold it any longer. You let your tears of happiness fall, and nodded your head rapidly, throwing your arms around Carlos’ shoulders, kissing him deeply. Both of you smiling at the kiss you had shared, and slipped the ring on your finger. You don’t know how Carlos managed to pull off everything, but there were fireworks display lighting up the night sky so beautifully.

“Yes. Yes, I will marry you, Carlos Sainz Jr.” you giggled, and kissed him lovingly.

As soon as Carlos broke the kiss, he shouted, “Everyone! She said yes!” There were series of cheers.

Everyone rushed towards you and Carlos, sharing a one big hug, while congratulations are being thrown around. The circuits of Marina Bay being a witness of yours and Carlos’ love and lifelong commitment to each other. It will always be a special place that you will hold dearly in your heart, and a reminder of the love that you will always share with Carlos.

[stranger-who-writes-fiction]

Back at it again with my self-indulgent comic posts. This time! It’s Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow #3, perhaps the most tonally-distinct entry yet, with shades of The Twilight Zone. 

Spoilers!

So, as mentioned, this issue is the most deliberate in terms of both its pacing and its tone, IMO.

What is that tone, you ask?

To quote Alex Danvers, from “Midvale”: Hello, darkness.

THE STORY:

Kara and Ruthye are still looking for Krem Clues in the alien town of Maypole.

(Which is actually just Small Town, USA, complete with vintage 50s aesthetics.)

But the locals are clearly hiding something! So Kara and Ruthye continue to investigate, and they eventually discover what it was that the residents of Maypole were so keen to keep hidden. 

Genocide, basically. 

As I said, this issue struck me as very Twilight Zone; a genre story involving the build-up to a dark twist, all set against the backdrop of an idyllic small town. (Think, like, “The Monsters are Due on Maple Street” but instead of focusing on the Red Scare, it’s classism and racism.)

The wealthier blue aliens kicked all of the purple aliens out of town, and when space pirates showed up to pillage and plunder, the blue aliens made a deal with them: the lives of the purple aliens in exchange for their safety.  

Which is where the episodic story connects to the larger mission; it was Krem who suggested the trade, and then joined up with the Brigands (space pirates) when he was freed by the blue aliens.

The issue ends with no tidy resolution to the terrible things Kara and Ruthye discovered, but they do have a lead on where to find Krem, now, as well as Barbond’s Brigands.

KARA-CTERIZATION:

Ironically, it’s here, in the darkest chapter yet, that we get the closest to what might be considered ‘classic’ Kara. 

Which I think comes down to that aforementioned deliberate pace--this issue is a little slower, a little quieter. It gives the characters some room to breathe.

That’s not to say Crusty Kara is gone. Oh no. She is still very much Crusty. XD 

But anyways. A list! Of Kara moments I loved!

I mentioned a few of these in a prior post when the preview pages came out: I like the moment where Kara blows down the guy’s house of cards, and I like that the action is echoed later in the issue when she grabs the mayor’s desk and tosses it aside. A nice visual representation of the escalation of Kara being, like. Done with these creeps. (Creeps is an understatement but you get the idea.)

Another one from the preview pages: Kara explains to Ruthye that her super hearing won’t necessarily help her detect a lie, especially if she’s dealing with an alien species she’s not familiar with.

It not only reveals her level of competence and understanding of her super powers, it also shows that, you know. She’s a thinker. She’s smart. 

Amazing! Showing, rather than telling us, that Kara is smart! Without mentioning the science guild at all wow hey wow.

(Sorry, pointed criticism of the SG show fandom.)

Anyways.

I dig the PJs! 

And Kara catching the bullet! Not only are the poses and character acting great, it’s also a neat bit of panel composition:

We start with Ruthye’s POV, and then move to the wide shot of the room. The panel where Kara actually catches the bullet is down and to the side of the wide shot panel--we move our eyes the way her body/arm would have to move to intercept the bullet. Physicality in static, 2D images!

Also, like. It’s a very tense moment, life-or-death, but. Ruthye’s wide-eyed surprise at the bullet in Kara’s hand? Kind of adorable. 

I was pretty much prepared for the page of Kara shielding Ruthye from the gunfire to be the highlight--it was one of the first pages King shared and I was like, ‘yeah, YEAH.’ But, shockingly? The TRUE highlight of the issue?

Where do I BEGIN?!?!

EVERYTHING. About this moment. Is lovely.

From Kara holding Ruthye above the bench to explaining the concept of a piggyback ride, to telling her:

“I’m going to hold my hands here, and these hands can turn coal into diamonds, so they’re not going to let go. I’m going to keep you safe.”

HNNNNNNNNNNNG.

Ruthye’s narration--about how Kara had avoided flying as she was concerned it would freak Ruthye out--just adds a whole additional layer of YES, GOOD, YES, and her line on that splash page is great: “You see, all that time, she was worried about me.”

HNNNNNNNNNNNG. AGAIN.

To say nothing of the STELLAR ARTWORK.

And SPEAKING of that stellar artwork, Evely and Lopes continue to knock it out of the park. Each issue is distinct and beautifully crafted, a true joy to look at.

Before I jump into more of the art, a few final notes of character stuff in general.

Ruthye is the one most affected by the experience in Maypole, as she can’t comprehend how a society of people that look so nice and gentle and peaceful could have been party to such a horrible act.

One of the big criticisms of the book thus far is that Supergirl is not the main character, and I guess I can agree with that observation. Typically, in Western media, the main character is the one who goes through the most change in the story. 

And, yeah. That’s Ruthye.

As I was reading the end, where Ruthye sits on the curb and Kara hugs her, I was imagining how the scene would’ve played, had King stuck with the original idea for the series: Kara as the one learning to be tough/experiencing all of this for the first time, and while I think that could certainly work...

I continue to appreciate that King literally flipped the script; that Kara, especially in this issue, is like, ‘I’ve seen this, I know this,’ as opposed to being the one going through a loss of innocence.

*Marge Simpson voice* I just think it’s neat!

Because Kara’s been a teen in DC comics for so long--ever since she was reintroduced to the main DCU continuity, actually--so this is all brand new territory, here. Having an older Kara who’s SEEN SOME STUFF.

(Alsoooooo, since Bendis made the destruction of Krypton not just inaction and climate disaster, but rather, genocide, and the subtext of a Kryptonian diaspora text, the waitress’ derogatory comment regarding the the destruction of Kryton, as well as Kara picking up the bad vibes the entire time, suggests not just a broad commentary on discrimination in all its forms, but specifically allegorical anti-Semitism. The purple aliens being forced out of their homes and into substandard living conditions, then the blue aliens--their neighbors and once-fellow residents--essentially allowing the space pirates to kill them, making them literal scapegoats, Kara discovering the remains of the purple aliens, and Ruthye’s horror at the ‘banality of evil’...yes. A case could be made, I think.) 

(Which would probably require a post unto itself and a lot more in-depth discussion, nuance, and cited sources.)

(Should mention that King has brought up that both he and Orlando--the other Supergirl writer he talked to--are Jewish, and for him personally, that shaped his views on Kara’s origin story.)

I guess my point is that this issue is perhaps not as out-of-left-field as some might think, and just because there isn’t as obvious an arc for Kara, doesn’t mean there isn’t some sharp character work at play. 

(I could be WAY OFF, of course, and I’m not suggesting it’s a clear 1:1 comparison. I’d actually really love to hear King talk about this issue in particular.)

Anyways.

Here’s the final page, which I think works, because as I mentioned before, there is no easy answer/quick wrap-up to the story of Maypole:

THE ART:

I mean. How many times can I just shout ‘ART! AAAARRRRRRRRRRRTTTT!’ before it gets old?

I dunno, but I guess we’re gonna FIND OUT.

There are some panels in this issue that I just. Like ‘em! From a purely artistic standpoint! Because they’re so good!

Like, I just really love the way Kara is drawn in that top panel. Her troubled, confused expression, the colors of the fading light, the HAIR. 

Evely draws the best hair. I know I’ve said this before. I don’t care. I will continue to say it, because it continues to be true.

The issue I find myself running up against when I make these posts is that I really don’t want to post whole pages, as that’s generally frowned upon (re: pirating etc.) but with something like this, you just can’t appreciate it in panel-by-panel snippets.

(Guided View on digital reading platforms is a BANE and a POX I say!)

Anyways.

LOVE the implied movement of the cape settling as Kara speeds in and stops. 

And, obviously, Kara flicking the bullet away is just. A+. 

And the EYES, man. LOPES’ COLORS ON THE EYES???!?! BEAUTIFUL.

Also, should note the lettering! The more rounded letters for the ‘WOOSH’ of Kara’s speed (and, earlier, the super breath) work nicely, and contrast with the angular, violent BLAMS of the gunshots. 

And, I gotta say, the editor is doing a really great job of not cluttering up the artwork with all the caption boxes. Which is no small task.

(I assume the editor is placing them, as editors usually handle word balloon/caption box placement, but I suppose it could be Evely? Sometimes the artist handles it. Either way, whoever’s taking care of all the text, EXCELLENT WORK! BRAVO!)

Okay I think that’s everything.

Ah, nope, wait.

MISC.

Just a funny observation, more than anything else: Superman: Red and Blue dropped this week, and King had a story in there, “The Special” (which was very good, btw.) Both Lois and the waitress swear a lot so I’m beginning to think that this is just how King writes dialogue for any adult character who isn’t Clark. XD

This is absolutely a personal preference but when Kara was like, “And my name IS Supergirl,” I was like nooooo. I know King is trying to simplify all of the conflicting origin stories and lore but I LIKE KARA DANVERS, SIR. XD

It’s almost assuredly a cash-grab/an attempt for DC to get all the money it can out of a book they don’t have much confidence in, but I like the cardstock covers! Very classy, much Strange Adventures.

(OH my gosh, can you imagine that issue 1 cover with spot gloss???? Basically the only way you could possibly improve on it.) 

Okay NOW I’m done. For real. XD NEXT TIME: Kara and Ruthye go after Krem and the Brigands!

[theonyxpath]

Here we are in almost the last week of the Deluxe M20 Technocracy Reloaded Kickstarter, and like all KSs, we’re at that time where pledges start to slow. So we’re thinking about this KS, and our previous ones, and the roster that’s coming up.

What works, what doesn’t, and what just makes us wonder. Like, should we continue to portion out sections of the complete text during the KS, so at the end backers have pretty much the text as it’s going to be before being formatted during layout. (Which makes it a lot easier to read in most cases!)

We like that model, as it shows prospective backers just what they’re getting so situations where folks expected one set of information but got something else don’t occur any longer. And it shows that the text being finished won’t be a factor in the final project delivery to KS backers.

Those are two pretty good things, in our estimation!

But, does that kill the fun for folks? Like, is there value in being, well, surprised by your new book when it arrives? So far, we’ve been betting that the surety of information is more important to more backers than those who might miss a surprise, but we could be wrong.

Similarly, if we say this is the text and if you don’t like it then you can drop your pledge before we finish, we see that as a valuable option for backers. We want folks who back to enjoy the Kickstarter and the material we’re releasing. We hope they enjoy the chance to help create one of these books by backing, or going further and taking one of those fancy, upper-tier rewards that let them add characters or be part of the art.

Lunars art by Gunship Revolution

Yet, we can only hope we’re pleasing folks as it is often hard to tell if our methods are not delivering our intention since the vast majority of backers don’t interact with KSs Comments section. Whether because of a general, well-earned, fear of Comments sections throughout the internet, or of KS Comments specifically, my impression from talking to backers is that they don’t need the stress.

Who can blame them? It’s why I always try and suggest other ways for folks to communicate with us – even here, I’ll suggest adding to the Comments for this blog, but whenever I do I also get direct emails. And they usually start off with a variant of: “Hope you don’t mind my contacting you this way, but I didn’t want to get involved with any drama in the Comments.”

Like I said, we tend to think a lot about how we do things, and particularly Kickstarters since they are one of our most public display of our processes.

In some states, public display of your processes can get you arrested!

To get back to the M20 Technocracy Reloaded KS, here’s some links to fun and informative programming that will be reposted in the Onyx Path Media section below:

Tune in to hear words of wisdom from the Technocratic Union live on Twitch, Tuesday, May 19th at 9 PM EDT on the Onyx Path Publishing Twitch Channel. twitch.tv/theonyxpath

Plus, Red Moon Roleplaying continue their actual play of Technocracy Reloaded right here: https://youtu.be/RtdW0znt7GU Please give them your support!

And also, Travis Legge’s M20 Technocracy Reloaded actual play, featuring a stellar cast including the one and only Satyr Phil Brucato: https://youtu.be/ALnD1nwuTis

TC: Aeon Jumpstart art by Aaron Riley

Our Next Kickstarter:

Of course, as we’ve been thinking about Kickstarters, we’ve been thinking about the best time to bring back the Legendlore Kickstarter. This was the KS we cancelled as we launched it right before the Covid-19 lock-downs, and we just didn’t think it could get the sort of attention it deserved.

But as we have considered the situation now, it seems like our lines of communication are, if not perfect, working far more closely to expectations. I’m getting regular notices from backers of our previous KSs again, for example.

So, without further ado, and not wanting to sit to long on Legendlore, we are going to Kickstart it next after M20 Technocracy Reloaded!

Expect most of our approach to be similar, but knowing that we already have a wonderful group of backers from the first go, we’ll be aiming at putting the KS together in a way that doesn’t just make them go through the same things again, and that appeals to folks who didn’t back the first time.

More on that as we have some actual examples!

Lunars art by Yiyhoung Li

Things We’re Doing To Try and Help During All This

On Wednesday, we’re opening up Dystopia Rising: Evolution Community Content on the Storypath Nexus. This is a chance for anyone to work with the templates and art packs we provide to create new projects for DR:E. As a creator, it’s a way to both publish your ideas, and to get a little extra cash during these difficult times.

That’s pretty much our feelings for any Community Content site right now. Plus, for players, the projects posted on these sites are PDFs that usually aren’t that big or expensive, and they very often are focused on useful additions to our official stuff. Adventures, deep dives into specific topics we’re not really set up to put together – just great ideas to add to your playing enjoyment.

Just wanted to chime in here to remind folks that we released Chronicles of Darkness: Dark Eras 2 on DTRPG last week, and besides the big book itself in PDF and PoD versions, we released each chapter as an individual PDF. If you’re into a particular line and/or historical period, but can’t indulge in buying the full book, these individual chapters are a lot easier on the budget with the job situation being what it is.

Also on DTRPG right now is the Shelter in Play Bundle containing about $180 worth of PDFs, including the Vinsen’s Tomb Jumpstart for Pugmire and A Light Extinguished, the Jumpstart for Scion 2e, plus a ton of other delightful games for playing while we’re all stuck in together – all for $10, and the proceeds go to two worthy charities! https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/312564/Shelter-In-Play-BUNDLE

Our friends at IPR, Indie Press Revolution, are running sales of our books over on their site (link below in the sales partners area) and are planning to continue to do so for the foreseeable future. If you’re looking for our traditionally printed hardcover books and screens, Deluxe and otherwise, now’s a great chance!

We made the decision last week that we wouldn’t be attending gaming conventions until we feel like our folks would be safe from Covid-19 if they attended. Considering that “con crud” is a thing that we expect to get after major conventions during a normal period, we just can’t send our people into a convention right now. Unfortunately, that includes our industry biggie Gen Con, which still has not announced whether it is postponed or cancelled. Regardless of their decision, ours is: we’re not going.

Finally, speaking of conventions: Thanks for the support and interest in an online Onyx Path Convention I received in the blog Comments and elsewhere all last week. It was heartening, and a little scary, how many of you would enjoy virtually playing our games and meeting with us. Actually, all kidding aside, it was great to hear!

No news yet, but you gave us even more to think about. In this case, expect that we’ll be acting pretty quickly on running something like a virtual convention. We want to commit, if we’re going to, before the enormity of it has a chance to sink in!

So, thanks to your feedback, we’re a few steps closer to arranging a virtual venue where we can talk about and play in our:

Many Worlds, One Path!

Blurbs!

Kickstarter!

The M20 Technocracy Reloaded Kickstarter funded in 43 minutes and at with just over a week to go has passed 1800 backer operatives, is over 400% funded, and has achieved Stretch Goals consisting of a Storytellers Screen unlock, an unlock of more original Mage PDFs, Backers’ Exclusive T-Shirt, Wallpaper, and building the Technocracy Reloaded Player’s Companion PDF: sections on Constructs and Symposiums (and then expanded by a later SG), Digital Web 3.0, Technomancers’ Toybox 20 and the Q-Division bonus section, Unlikely Allies 1, 2, & 3, Mission Statement short scenarios, and the expanded Digital Web 3.0.2. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/200664283/m20-technocracy-reloaded

Highlights of M20 Technocracy Reloaded include:

An Operative’s Handbook that provides a detailed overview of life in the Technocratic Union, describing the organization of the Union, the Conventions, and the roles that sympathizers, extraordinary citizens, and Enlightened Operatives play in the overall structure of the Technocracy.

An examination of Technocratic initiatives on a global scale.

Devices, procedures, and hypertech used by the Technocratic Union that explores the Enlightened Science, allowing operatives to apply similar effects in the field, if they have sufficient understanding of the principles that allow these gadgets to function.

A comprehensive list of citizens, cyborgs, operatives, progenitor creations, and allies to use as NPCs.

Storyteller support that explores story seeds and metaplot to shape a chronicle for their needs.

Next Kickstarter: We return to The Realm of Legendlore!

Onyx Path Media!

This week Impish Ian Watson returns to delve into the Trinity Continuum, specifically the recently announced Trinity Continuum: Anima, VtM Bloodlines, and the happy wonders of managing Onyx Path social media with the Terrific Trio!

As always, this Friday’s Onyx Pathcast will be on Podbean or your favorite podcast venue! https://onyxpathcast.podbean.com/

Tune in to hear words of wisdom from the Technocratic Union live on Twitch, Tuesday, May 19th at 9 PM EDT on the Onyx Path Publishing Twitch Channel. twitch.tv/theonyxpath

Join the Consensus and watch the stream.

Plus, Red Moon Roleplaying continue their actual play of Technocracy Reloaded right here: https://youtu.be/RtdW0znt7GU Please give them your support!

Come tune in to our Twitch channel for a schedule including:

Vampire: The Masquerade – Blood on the Tamesis

Vampire: The Masquerade – Chicago by Night Noir

Pugmire – Paws & Claws

Storytellers with Coffee

Scarred Lands: Chronicles of Calastia

Changeling: The Lost – Littlebrook Reunion

Changeling: The Dreaming – The Last Faerie Tale

Mage: The Awakening – Occultists Anonymous

Scarred Lands – Purge of the Serpentholds

Dark Eras Werewolf: The Forsaken

Chronicles of Darkness – Tooth & Claw

Deviant: The Renegades – A Cautionary Tale

Good heavens, that’s a lot of games for you to watch!

You can subscribe to our channel over on twitch.tv/theonyxpath to catch up with any episodes you missed!

Come take a look at our YouTube channel, youtube.com/user/theonyxpath, where you can find a whole load of videos of actual plays, dissections of our games, and more, including:

Changeling: The Dreaming – The Last Faerie Tale: https://youtu.be/fx_UEKY6moE

Scarred Lands: Purge of the Serpentholds: https://youtu.be/9YC0qb29vjk

Mage: The Ascension – Technocracy Reloaded: https://youtu.be/ALnD1nwuTis

Hunter: The Vigil – Hometown Heroes: https://youtu.be/LJs8Q6KVu1o

Changeling: The Lost – Littlebrook Reunion: https://youtu.be/SXYLA9rCjKk

Vampire: The Masquerade – Blood City Chicago by Night: https://youtu.be/NmDv9Sq_wKA

Chronicles of Darkness – Seattle by Streetlight: https://youtu.be/6CwozhRpUNo

Do subscribe to our channel and click the bell icon if you want to be notified whenever new news videos and uploads come online!

Did you miss 307 RPG interviewing Matthew Dawkins regarding everything from They Came from Beneath the Sea! and They Came from Beyond the Grave! to upcoming Vampire: The Masquerade books? Give them a listen here: https://307rpg.com/?p=265

Further to that interview, the 307 RPG Podcast released an episode all to do with the Archetypes in They Came from Beneath the Sea!:  https://307rpg.com/?p=282

That’s not all! Vorpal Tales commence an actual play of They Came from Beneath the Sea! tonight over on their Twitch channel! Find them here: https://twitch.tv/vorpaltales

Utility Muffin Labs, home of the 25 Years of Vampire: The Masquerade podcast, have released a glowing review of The Chicago Folios right here: https://utilitymuffinlabs.com/25-years-of-vampire-the-masquerade?author=51a88e2ee4b035d1810e13fe

Occultists Anonymous are here with a new special Mage: The Awakening series:

RV Mage 07: Reversion  With Orphean mages no longer on the field of battle, the Pentacle mages work to undo the warping of the Gauntlet. The werewolves threatening the Supernal Being is going to make negotiations a little difficult. https://youtu.be/iUZKuh0G5sI

RV Mage 08: Excursion Following the Supernal shenanigans in downtown Richmond, Vicar, Drifter, and Amanita begin the search for further Orphean agents. An attempt to restore relationships with the werewolves goes as well as you might expect… https://youtu.be/YUcXnQwB-vM

Please check these out and let us know if you find or produce any actual plays of our games! We’d love to feature you!

Electronic Gaming!

As we find ways to enable our community to more easily play our games, the Onyx Dice Rolling App is live! Our dev team has been doing updates since we launched based on the excellent use-case comments by our community, and this thing is awesome! (Seriously, you need to roll 100 dice for Exalted? This app has you covered.)

On Amazon and Barnes & Noble!

You can now read our fiction from the comfort and convenience of your Kindle (from Amazon) and Nook (from Barnes & Noble).

If you enjoy these or any other of our books, please help us by writing reviews on the site of the sales venue from which you bought it. Reviews really, really help us get folks interested in our amazing fiction!

Our selection includes these latest fiction books:

Our Sales Partners!

We’re working with Studio2 to get Pugmire and Monarchies of Mau out into stores, as well as to individuals through their online store. You can pick up the traditionally printed main book, the screen, and the official Pugmire dice through our friends there! https://studio2publishing.com/search?q=pugmire

We’ve added Prince’s Gambit to our Studio2 catalog: https://studio2publishing.com/products/prince-s-gambit-card-game

Now, we’ve added Changeling: The Lost Second Edition products to Studio2‘s store! See them here: https://studio2publishing.com/collections/all-products/changeling-the-lost

Scion 2e books and other products are available now at Studio2: https://studio2publishing.com/blogs/new-releases/scion-second-edition-book-one-origin-now-available-at-your-local-retailer-or-online

Looking for our Deluxe or Prestige Edition books? Try this link! http://www.indiepressrevolution.com/xcart/Onyx-Path-Publishing/

And you can order Pugmire, Monarchies of Mau, Cavaliers of Mars, and Changeling: The Lost 2e at the same link! And now Scion Origin and Scion Hero and Trinity Continuum Core and Trinity Continuum: Aeon are available to order!

As always, you can find Onyx Path’s titles at DriveThruRPG.com!

On Sale This Week!

This week, the PDF and PoD versions of Oak, Ash, and Thorn the Changeling: The Lost 2e Companion bolts from the freakish Hedge on DriveThruRPG on Wednesday!

Oak, Ash, and Thorn as a companion book to Changeling: The Lost Second Edition, expands on what’s in the core book. It contains:

Expanded rules for freeholds and a selection of seeds for sample freeholds in four international locations.

Rules for creating new court Bargains and an introduction to non-traditional Mantles, including free companies, traveling bands, and Lost dynasties, with a playable example of each.

Entitlements, the titles of nobility that changelings assume to inherit mystical legacies from the Lost who came before them, including three full examples with accompanying tokens and Merits.

Expanded rules for tokens, including two new types with examples, guidelines for creating your own, and a system for ripping out one’s heart to become unkillable.

Also on Wednesday, we open the Dystopia Rising: Evolution Community Content section of the Storypath Nexus! Expect template and art packs you can use to create your own supplements to the DR:E tabletop RPG (and even get a royalty for your work!) Check it out for community-created supplements to further expand your fun with DR:E!

Conventions!

Though dates are subject to change due to the current COVID-19 outbreak, here’s our current list of upcoming conventions:

UKGames Expo: https://www.ukgamesexpo.co.uk/

GenCon: https://www.gencon.com/

Tabletop Scotland: https://tabletopscotland.co.uk/

Gamehole Con: https://www.gameholecon.com/

PAX Unplugged: https://unplugged.paxsite.com/

And now, the new project status updates!

Development Status from Eddy Webb! (Projects in bold have changed status since last week.):

First Draft (The first phase of a project that is about the work being done by writers, not dev prep.)

Exalted Essay Collection (Exalted)

Under Alien Suns (Trinity Continuum: Aeon)

Adversaries of the Righteous (Exalted 3rd Edition)

The Clades Companion (Deviant: The Renegades)

The Devoted Companion (Deviant: The Renegades)

Saints and Monsters (Scion 2nd Edition)

Wild Hunt (Scion 2nd Edition)

Dead Man’s Rust (Scarred Lands)

V5 The Faithful Undead (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)

V5 Trails of Ash and Bone (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)

V5 Forbidden Religions (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)

Trinity Continuum: Anima

Redlines

Dragon-Blooded Novella #2 (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Hundred Devil’s Night Parade (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Trinity Continuum: Adventure! core (Trinity Continuum: Adventure!)

Contagion Chronicle Ready-Made Characters (Chronicles of Darkness)

Novas Worldwide (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Exalted Essence Edition (Exalted 3rd Edition)

M20 Rich Bastard’s Guide To Magick (Mage: The Ascension 20th Anniversary)

Second Draft

Many-Faced Strangers – Lunars Companion (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Kith and Kin (Changeling: The Lost 2e)

Assassins (Trinity Continuum Core)

Dearly Bleak – Novella (Deviant: The Renegades)

Mission Statements (Trinity Continuum: Aeon)

Development

TC: Aberrant Reference Screen (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Across the Eight Directions (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Contagion Chronicle: Global Outbreaks (Chronicles of Darkness)

M20 Victorian Mage (Mage: the Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition)

Crucible of Legends (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Exigents (Exalted 3rd Edition)

N!ternational Wrestling Entertainment (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Manuscript Approval

They Came From Beyond the Grave! (They Came From!)

Post-Approval Development

Scion: Demigod (Scion 2nd Edition)

Scion: Dragon (Scion 2nd Edition)

Editing

Lunars Novella (Rosenberg) (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Mummy: The Curse 2nd Edition core rulebook (Mummy: The Curse 2nd Edition)

Player’s Guide to the Contagion Chronicle (Chronicles of Darkness)

Contagion Chronicle Jumpstart (Chronicles of Darkness)

TC: Aberrant Jumpstart (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Trinity Continuum Jumpstart (Trinity Continuum)

Masks of the Mythos (Scion 2nd Edition)

LARP Rules (Scion 2nd Edition)

Heirs to the Shogunate (Exalted 3rd Edition)

The Book of Lasting Death (Mummy: The Curse 2e)

Post-Editing Development

City of the Towered Tombs (Cavaliers of Mars)

W20 Shattered Dreams Gift Cards (Werewolf: The Apocalypse 20th)

Cults of the Blood Gods (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)

Hunter: The Vigil 2e core (Hunter: The Vigil 2nd Edition)

Trinity Continuum: Aberrant core (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Deviant: The Renegades (Deviant: The Renegades)

Monsters of the Deep (They Came From Beneath the Sea!)

Legendlore core book (Legendlore)

Pirates of Pugmire KS-Added Adventure (Realms of Pugmire)

Tales of Aquatic Terror (They Came From Beneath the Sea!)

Terra Firma (Trinity Continuum: Aeon)

One Foot in the Grave Jumpstart (Geist: The Sin-Eaters 2e)

Indexing

Art Direction from Mike Chaney!

In Art Direction

Scion Titanomachy

Tales of Aquatic Terror

WoD Ghost Hunters – KS final art: One more piece coming in.

Aberrant – Contacting and contracting. Signing off on sketches.

Pugmire Adventure – All sketches in.

Hunter: The Vigil 2e

Mummy 2

Deviant – Dividing up among current artists.

Legendlore – Back to KS prep.

Technocracy Reloaded (KS) – Happening.

Cults of the Blood God – Rolling along.

Scion: Dragon – Waiting on art notes.

Masks of the Mythos – Waiting on art notes.

Scion: Demigod – Waiting on art notes.

They Came From Beyond the Grave! (KS) – Sent out notes for fulls and splats for KS.

In Layout

Yugman’s Guide to Ghelspad

Vigil Watch

TC Aeon Terra Firma – Over to Josh.

V5 Let the Streets Run Red – Working on it.

Pirates of Pugmire Screen – Getting charts from dev.

Proofing

Trinity Aeon Jumpstart – New artist taking care of finishing missing art.

Pirates of Pugmire – Errata input.

TCFBTS Heroic Land Dwellers – Inputting backer errata.

Lunars: Fangs at the Gate – Gathering Backer PDF errata.

Scion Companion – Just waiting for two tweaked pieces, expected today.

Contagion Chronicle – Corrections going over to Josh.

Cavaliers of Mars: City of the Towered Tombs

Duke Rollo Book – Finishing gathering backer errata.

Buried Bones: Creating in the Realms of Pugmire (Realms of Pugmire)

Magic Item Decks (Scarred Lands)

Yugman’s Guide Support Decks (Scarred Lands)

At Press

Night Horrors : Nameless and Accursed – PoD proof on the way.

Dystopia Rising: Evolution Community Content site – Opening on the Storypath Nexus this Weds!

TCFBTS Screen and Booklet

They Came from Beneath the Sea!

C:tL 2e Oak, Ash, & Thorn – PDF and PoD versions on sale at DTRPG this Weds!

Today’s Reason to Celebrate!

Please welcome Aaron Voss to Onyx Path! Aaron is old White Wolf and was my print buyer in the years before the merger with CCP, and has expertise in every stage of the game book creation process, and is specifically going to oversee getting our projects printed and shipped (and help Mirthful Mike Chaney out where he is needed).

[skyprincesscommander]

My thoughts on the William/Kara development and Supercorp

There’s a lot of upset people in the SG fandom right now, so I wanted to post my opinion on the recent romantic developments. To summarise: I think William is a bad love interest (at least at this point in time), but I do not harbor anger toward the writers concerning Supercorp. I realize I am in the minority for that second point, and if you disagree with my opinion, you are always welcome to discuss it with me.  So. Thoughts.

William x Kara: Let’s start with what makes a good couple, or at the very least, what makes the most popular couples: Slow Burn, the progression from friendship to love that is witnessed on screen. It’s never as interesting to watch two people get together who already have a romantic history, or who are love at first sight. The audience wants to go on a journey with the characters, to see how they’ve grown closer together over time, and finally how they realize they can’t be without each other. They’ve barely established why Kara should be interested in William (a problem they had with Monel as well) and they are already throwing them together for a date. One of my personal favorite couples of all time, Lois and Clark from Smallville, spent four seasons bantering before ever admitting an attraction. Even Barry and Iris spent a couple of seasons playing the will they/won’t they game. This is a misstep that Supergirl has now made on almost every occasion. Kara crushed on James from the first meeting, started dating Monel within half a season, and even Alex and Kelly are acting like a couple who have been together for years rather than months. It seems like the writers have no interest in showing the little romantic moments and how two people fall in love.

William has barely shared scenes with Kara, nor established himself as a strong individual character. I did not write him off, nor did I have a problem with him as an eventual love interest, but I had hoped they would flesh him out before ever reaching this stage. I’m not surprised they jumped the gun. To be honest, there’s not much to even criticize about William. There’s barely anything to know about him, and yet I’m supposed to become invested in this romance. 

The only positive aspect of this storyline so far is that William is not a Superhero. Whoever Kara’s inevitable LI is, I hope they are a civilian. That dynamic is just so much more interesting.

Thoughts on Supercorp and Accusations of Queerbaiting My absence of anger stems from a very simple fact - I never believed Supercorp would ever become canon.  Although I have shipped these two since the relationship's inception, it has been clear to me they were only written as a beautiful friendship throughout their storyline (season 5 has a few hiccups in this regard, but I’ll get there). In my view, the romantic interpretations of supercorp were the sole ownership of fans like me and not in the text of the show, thus I was able to enjoy the ship stress-free. In many ways, I never want it to be canon. Writing (especially on CW shows) tends to screw with relationships I love, so staying in the friend-zone greatly reduces the chances of that happening, and I can stay in my little non-canon bubble with art, fanfiction, and headcanons, and never be upset.  Other than good chemistry, there are 4 main reasons that a ship like Supercorp has so many fans. It’s these 4 factors that are shared by all most popular f/f ships, and it’s what all us lesbians are really waiting for: 1. The involvement of the show's protagonist. Not only does this give the ship superior importance, but due to the status of the protagonist, it makes it invincible.  2. A slow burn (See above for reasons). 3. An enemies to lovers OR forbidden romance trope. This gives the ship an ‘epic’ feeling and usually has the most potential for interesting storytelling (Kara and Lena should be enemies so I consider them an example of this trope).  4. Genre fiction (superheroes, fantasy, adventure). The constant life and death stakes of these shows also increase the epic quality of the ship.  Swan Queen, Clexa, and Supercorp all have this in common (Clexa had all the marks of a slow burn if it wasn’t for ADC’s availability). Now, why do I mention this? Because personally, I love Kara and Lena for what they potentially could be as a romance, not the close friendship they are actually written as. When the day comes when my dreams come true and I am given the ship that actually ticks all these boxes, AND is written with this intention from the beginning, no one will ever be able to argue the validity of this pairing or say that they were thrown together because of fan pressure.  For these reasons, I never considered Supercorp queerbaiting in any regard...until season 5. Again, I didn’t feel particularly baited by it (in fact I’ve been quite grateful for it), but I can understand how others did. Many scenes, mostly in 5x03 and 5x08, had me scratching my head wondering why they’d make such romantic choices. But after my experience with Clexa, I have learned it’s much better not to have expectations (In my view, Clexa will always be the ultimate example of queerbaiting, which is its own essay) and just enjoy the ride. That’s a hard lesson to learn though.  All of this debate about queerbaiting would be solved if the writers were willing to just come out and say that they won’t put two characters together. “No, we don’t ever plan to make Kara and Lena romantic, but we do plan to always deeply explore that relationship and the complexities of female friendship”. This is what I believe the creators need to say. If they did so, they could layer any scene with the most romantic music they liked, and I wouldn’t consider it queerbaiting. However, they aren’t willing to do this because they think they will lose some of their audience, which is not a good enough reason. I will, however, say that  writers are put in an impossible position for these types of couples. If they don’t give these two characters scenes, fans will complain that the show is boring and demand content. If they do, they will be accused of queerbaiting. Though I will criticize any writer for bad storytelling (like William and Kara), they shouldn’t be attacked for not giving fans what they want. Everyone has their own vision and should have the freedom to write it. 

Even though I understand the disappointment of Supercorp never being canon, complex female friendships on television are fantastic to watch, and I will not begrudge the writers if they handle Kara x Lena well. The story of Kara and Lena has huge potential for deep and important storytelling. Regardless of their relationship status, they are two characters whose story will resonate in this show. In the end, they may even be considered the most important relationship, barring, of course, Alex and Kara. That’s all I ever wanted from them.

[amethyst-noir]

Tagged: All about me and fanfic

I got tagged by the wonderful @aelaer; thank you so much! This was fun!

1. At what age did you start writing fanfiction?

16. I discovered fanfic in December 1999, which makes this year my 20th anniversary, yay! At the same time I also met my best friend. She was curious what walls of text I was staring at while all the others were in various chat rooms. (We didn't have internet at home back then and this was during trade school which was a boarding school. I got online for the very first time, didn't know what to do and typed my current obsession into AltaVista. Highlander. I discovered fanfic about 5 minutes later and never looked back. That was all in German back then because my English was almost non-existent. I only learned it because I wanted to read more HL fic and I've burned through everything in my native language so I had to expand. Yes, I've learned English through fanfic and later on - after the advent of DVDs - by watching shows and movies in the original version.

2. Who is your favorite author?

Help, I don't want to play favorites but okay: Maygra, who wrote beautiful Duncan/Methos stories and whose Chris/Vin stories brought me from HL over into Magnificent Seven fandom. MacGeorge, who wrote the hottest Duncan/Methos and the best Duncan Gen I have ever laid eyes on. Unfortunately, their website is no longer online so the link goes to the Wayback Machine.

Tons of wonderful people in the Mag7 fandom (Gen and Slash alike) whose work is lost in the mists of time of still lives in worddoc copies on my harddrive. Their pages where on Angelfire (some of them are still there); lots on Tripod or even Geocities. See, I've been around for a long while. 😉

During my Stargate Atlantis days I read tons and tons but special mentions go to Auburn and Synecdochic (who wrote much more SG-1 than SGA but freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose still makes me tear up just thinking about).

Between Mag7 and SGA I spent time lurking in The Professionals, Starsky & Hutch and Supernatural fandom but I consumed such vast quantities in such a short time that I barely remember anything (I was jobless at that time), but Flamingo's Starsky & Hutch stories are exceptional.

Then there was Person of Interest and Da Vinci's Demon's and Hannibal and lots of other casual fandoms. Hannibal was the fandom I joined Tumblr for and I still lurked around. I only started writing, posting and interacting with people after Infinity War, a little bit over a year ago now. (And by "started writing" I mean in English. I wrote in German until about 2008 or 09 when I gradually stopped because there was no feedback and I had no fandom I could really obsess over. I was reading and lurking around until IW and Ironstrange came along and by that time I was not even thinking about writing in German anymore.)

A couple of favorites from this corner of fandom (in alphabetical order!): @atypical-snowman, @aelaer, @babywarg, @descaladumidera, @mistressstrange, @myrxellabaratheon, @phierie, @ssironstrange, @stark-raving-strange. There are many more but those are the ones I first thought of. They give me Tony and Stephen as equals, snarky and complex people and also deliver on the angsty H/C. I love you all. 💞

3. Favorite type of scene to write?

Comfort. Hurt is necessary before that but I much prefer long drawn out comfort with lots of touching and talking, culminating in a (first) kiss. Angst and misunderstandings regarding feelings are also nice but only if it ends in happy contentment.

4. What is your favorite fanfic?

Uff, okay, one for each fandom because otherwise we're here until the next year.

Highlander: Variation in D Minor by killabeez (4th installment of Orchestral Maneuvers in the Dark series)

The Magnificent Seven: Egeo Fides (Without Promise)  by Maygra (3rd installment of theTo Make of Heaven, Earth series)

Starsky & Hutch: Crystal Blue Persuasion by Flamingo

Stargate Atlantis: No way, there are too many. But check out the SGA Big Bang on the Wayback Machine if you want tons to read. This was the first Big Bang I witnessed and since than I've been stuck with the definition of "40.000 words or more" for such events. The SGA years where the most fun I had in fandom until I fell into Ironstrange.

Hannibal:

Ahem. *draws a blank* Sorry. But there was such much in the heyday of the fandom. Let's just say that I like it when Will and Hannibal are depicted as equals or Will as the dominant one. Frail-flower-Will who is an unsuspecting ping-pong ball for manipulative!Hannibal is not my thing. They manipulated each other like the pros they are and in the end Will out manipulated Hannibal, in my opinion. Peacefrog wrote beautiful Hannibal.

Marvel/Ironstrange: Let's just name my favorite current WIP and be done with it otherwise this gets exhausting. whatever souls are made of by @atypical-snowman. This has everything I love and adore. And I still have to catch up with it. Also, I'm looking forward to @iwritefanficsometimes's Switched at Birth AU.

5. What tags do you avoid like the plague?

A/B/O, except for very rare exceptions. Mpreg. Always. Everything with Tony and Steve in a past or present relationship because I just don't like it. "Hurt no Comfort" - see me run in the other direction as fast as I can.

6. What AU do you wish to write but feel like you won’t manage?

Fantasy or Historical AU. Rewrite of the MCU where Stephen, Tony and Pepper know each other since before the events of IM1 and fall into a relationship before the first Avengers.

7. Do you outline, or write as you go?

No outline. If I outline the story is finished. I write because I have an idea and don't know how it'll turn out. I discover the plot as I write. If I do an outline I know what happens and see no use in writing it anymore. *looks at outline for massive d/s AU with soulbond for Tony and Stephen* You are nice, but I know exactly what happens in every scene so why bother writing it out completely? Boring.

8. What has been your favorite story to write so far? Why?

Precious. Because it wrote itself and was so much fun. I had absolutely no clue what it would become when I started and a week later I had this massive (for me) story.

9. Do you prefer to write one-shots or multi-chapters? Why?

I only can do one-shots. I would love to write a long multi-chapter epic but my style and my endurance don't fit with it. Watch me cram 10 years into 5k words.

10. What is your favorite kind of comment?

Each and every one! I squee in delight when I get an "<3", I jump from joy when I get "I loved it" and I'm bouncing like a little child when I get one of those long ones that tell me what the reader liked best. I look forward to the Kudos mail each and every day.

11. Why did you start writing fanfiction? Why are you still writing?

I started because I was back home from school and offline. "I can do that too!" I thought and tried it. It was bad, it was really bad. But badly writing in German was a stepping stone to writing halfway decent (or so I like to think) in English. I know that I make tons of mistakes, I know that I basically write the same plot/situations all over again and again but I enjoy it and quite some people enjoy it with me. So why not? I don't want to get traditionally published, I don't want a career writing; I just want the ideas out of my head. And if other people like what I write? Yay, thank you, I love you!

[p0cketdiary-blog]

My concert experience! [Pt. 3]

Yippee~ Welcome to the last, and FINAL part of my concert experience!! I honestly did not realize how talkative I was (even on text) until the birth of this blog. I sincerely apologize for talking so much. But I guess it kind of helps in a way - considering we have the 5k word minimum to hit. So in other words, sorry not sorry!! :( Anyways!! With Part 1 and 2 done and dusted, we will now move onto the amazing trip to the Lion City and the actual concert day!!

Note: I hate that I get sidetracked so easily, please ignore random topics that pops up mid-sentence or paragraph, my brain works that way. Thank you!

To be frank, the organizers (namely; One Production SG and LiveNation SG) were not the very best in terms of being “fair” at handling a concert as huge as 50k attendees. But, I guess that’s the tea for another day, a whole new segment can be written in regards to that (haha). However! Our focus on this post alone, is to talk about how amazing the concert was as well as what went down before, during and after the concert!!

We departed from BWN to SG on the 17th of January, a Thursday (the concert was happening on a Saturday, 19th of January). I have to admit - I missed a class on the day of our flight to our show. But! Do not fret, as I was able to catch up on all the things that I have missed via FaceTime with a group of my friends - being the good student that I am! Surprisingly, we were not the only ones leaving to the concert on Thursday as the airport were filled with ARMYs. 

Note #2: I came down with a mild fever the day before our flight and I brought it on-flight into SG up until the day of the concert (in which, I probably have sweat out every drip of fever in me).

How was I able to tell, you might ask? Well, they all had at least a piece of BTS merchandise on them. We also saw people who had suitcases that were BTS themed (in all honesty, if it were me, I would not want to let the airline throw/drag around my precious BTS suitcase - I mean they were never really the best at being careful). It was a shock to our parents too, that so many Bruneians were also a part of the fandom and are flying to watch the same show. *Meanwhile us to our parents* “now you know how much a big deal BTS are to us, huh?”.

Since we arrived 2 days prior to the concert, we have planned a visit to the National Stadium on Friday (the next day) - in order to see where everything was so we would not need to rush on the actual day. We also needed to find out where the merchandise booth was as well as the BTS STUDIO Photo Booth - in which we will get to take a photo (provided that you have won a raffle, and my sister did!) next to a holographic/CGI-ed member (?) next to you (I have no idea what the technical term or jargon is). Our main agenda however, was to hunt for their banners that were only put up on the day we arrived - so we could take pictures with and of them as there would definitely be a queue to take pictures on the actual day (haha!).

Moving on to D-DAY - the day of the concert, yay! We were up early, at 7AM and we were planning to leave to the stadium by 8AM as it takes about 10-15 minutes of MRT ride from our place. But we ended up only leaving at 9AM as my cousin could not get herself to stay AWAKE. We left to the MRT station right away and as we were about to sit down to wait for the train - my cousin mentioned about wanting to get an image picket (a huge fan with a member’s face printed on it). That was when I realized we LEFT our tickets (since ticket rhymes with picket haha??) at HOME on the dining table.

We had in mind that it was just another day while being on holiday and we are just on our way to Burger King to grab breakfast before going on a shopping spree. Did we REALLY forget the actual reason that we were here, in this country, in the first place? Thankfully the station was only 5 minutes away from our place, so my sister had to tap out of the station and then walk all the way back to get the tickets. We wasted about 15-20 minutes in the station, acting like a bunch of fools (haha!).

In addition to that, the reason why we needed to be there early was because the wonderful organizers needed all standing ticket holders to be in a holding area (at the Indoor Stadium) by 2PM before being transferred to the actual venue at 2:30PM (and if you have won soundcheck passes - you would need to be in by 1PM). Which meant that we would have less time to eat, get our merchandises and visit the Photo Booth. Although admissions for all tickets were at 5:30PM and the concert does not begin until 7PM. Bizarre, right?

So.. Yeah, I lied.. This post will NOT be the final part.. Part 3.1 will be up shortly after this, solely because I want my photos and/or videos (if I can insert them alongside photos??) to show and not be hidden under “Keep Reading” since this post has gotten too long, AGAIN. See ya!

[wingslovesfiction]

tagged by: @monkeysatemylastrolo (here is her post) who is writing the lovely Supernatural/Avengers crossover fanfic Trading places on AO3 under the username Vegetableswillhavetheirrevenge. I think I found your AO3 profile and therefore your fic through your tumblr, then promplty forgot about it cause you have a very different username :D rules: you must answer these 85 statements and tag 20 people tagging: This is so difficult... @tigerlilynoh @semirahrose @denugis @l-e-i-n-t-h @posingasme I’d tag @eruthiawenluin but she’s already answered here, @rirren @fioreitaliano @mixgoldenphoenix @forlorn-kumquat @waterbird13 but only if they want to. Any anyone else who wants to. :)

Sorry, but I’m incapable of giving short answers, apparently.

the last 1. drink: water. pretty much always. 2. phone call: my father, day before yesterday, about some potential tenants. 3. text message: ...also to my father, apparently. It was over a week ago, letting him and my mom know know when I was getting back. 4. song you listened to: not sure... it was in a fanvid, probably? I’ve rewatched sone SPN fanvids recently. Oh, no, it was that Anaconda/Phantom of the Opera mashup on here, wasn’t it? Yikes. 5. time you cried: I cry pretty rarely, and that’s usually because of a piece of fiction... it was either Atonement (movie with James McAvoy), or else a movie I don’t even know the title of, it just involved a grandmother almost dying, and I happened to be in the room at that part, and a relative of ours died recently - and I did not cry then, this stupid movie just triggered it somehow. 6. dated someone twice: how do you even count dates if you’re aroace but you slowly drift into a relatioship with your best (only) friend on a “I want to try this” basis? But I suppose the answer is: now, since I have a boyfriend at the moment. 7. kissed someone and regretted it: 2012 iirc, first time I tried kissing and hated it. But it was also good to know I don’t like it, so it’s not a big regret. Recenty it turned out I can like kissing, though. 8. been cheated on: never. 9. lost someone special: Mum’s cousin died a couple of months ago. 10. been depressed: it’s not to diagnosable levels, but I’m depressed and anxious a lot when I’m stressed, so this January-April had some difficult parts when I was writing my thesis. But 2013 autumn (I think?) was the only time I went to a therapist for it, cause wanting to die instead of dealing with stuff is not a nice thought to have that often. 11. gotten drunk and thrown up: never. I drink so rarely and so little when I do that I don’t think it will ever happen.

3 favorite colors 12. green 13. blue 14. yellow if mixed with the first two. Otherwise silver?

in the last year have you 15. made new friends: yes (but not close friends) 16. fallen out of love: so far I seem to be 100% aromantic... 17. laughed until you cried: Laughed a lot, yes, but I don’t remember if I ever cried from laughing. 18. found out someone was talking about you: what does this even mean? in secret? no. 19. met someone who changed you: do people who teach you stuff count? 20. found out who your friends are: ...no? 21. kissed someone on your Facebook list: what facebook list? I only kissed one person, and we are friends on fb, yes...

general 22. how many of your Facebook friends do you know in real life: All of them. I only have people on there who are to do with my real life, not my internet life. “knowing” them might be an exaggeration, though. 23. do you have any pets: my family has one cat atm. 24. do you want to change your name: Nope. 25. what did you do for your last birthday: parents, siblings & their SOs, cake. 26. what time did you wake up: Midday... 27. what were you doing at midnight last night: sat in my parents’s car, coming back from a day trip to the Cserhát mountains. 28. name something you can’t wait for: I’m good right now... I’d rather this summer dragged on forever, since I just got my degree and start work in September (as much as I love my future job). There’s movies I’m looking forward to, but I can wait. 29. when was the last time you saw your mum: a second ago. 31. what are you listening to right now: birdsong; my parents talking at times. 32. have you ever talked to a person named tom: I don’t think so. Maybe. Does the Hungarian equivalent of the name count? 33. something that is getting on your nerves: politics and news. More personally (tmi?): the roots of my body hair getting inflamed all the time. 34. most visited website: gmail, technically, from where I go to FFNet or AO3 for fanfic updates. Recently, tumblr is creeping back up. 35. hair colour: brown. 36. long or short hair: short (pixie!). I got it cut almost exactly 2 years ago, I wore it long before then. 37. do you have a crush on someone: No, still aro. 38. what do you like about yourself: I have a high IQ. It has its drawbacks (mainly my conscience screaming “why are you not doing MORE if you have the ability”), but I don’t know what I’d do without it. 39. piercings: no. 40. blood type: I don’t know. 41. nickname: Wings on the internet, rather not say in person. My given name is from the Bible so it’s pretty common in a lot of countries, but the nickname for it that I use only exists in my country (Hungary). 42. relationship status: like I said: ‘dating’ my best friend who knows I’m aro and (mostly?) ace, on the basis “let’s give it a try since we enjoy each other’s company”. It’s going well, so far, but he’s been in Germany for the past few months on a scholarship. 43. zodiac: Taurus (ascendant: Libra) 44. pronouns: she/her 45. favourite tv show: I have a lot of stuff I love a lot, it changes over time which one I’m focused on. I don’t have the objectivity to choose from them. Supernatural and Stargate: SG-1 deserve mentioning because I haven’t only read a ton of fanfic for them, I have also written a bit. 46. tattoos: nope. 47. right or left handed: right. 48. surgery: None. My broken arm only needed a cast. 49. piercing: I’d like to leave monkeysatemylastrolo’s answer here: “Why is ‘piercing’ any different from the ‘piercings’ of question 39? Is there some special magical power people gain depending on the number of piercings they have?” 50. sport: Tai chi (Taijiquan). It’s great. It’s martial arts and meditation but it’s slow moving and graceful and I could start it when I was out of breath just going up the stairs. Never looked back. I would like swimming, if *something* wouldn’t always get in the way. 51. vacation: I’m spending my summer with my parents in my childhood home. It counts as vacation because there’s clean air and lakes and I won’t be living here from September, when I start working in Budapest. 52. pair of trainers: yes? What about them? I have two pairs of cheap flat-soled ones for tai chi, and a pair of not-really-trainers for street wear (white, black, and light green, respecitvely). 53. eating: I just had some ice cream cake left over from my dad’s birthday. 54. drinking: water. again. 55. i’m about to: dunno. Read fanfic, probably, or answer some emails if there are any potential tenants. 56. waiting for: my graduation ceremony in two weeks? 57. want: realistically? To enjoy and earn enough money with the job I’m starting in September. Unrealistically? Superpowers, preferably ones involving flight, preferably wings + the assorted powers I made up. 58. get married: Probably not. I might enter a long-term relationship in order to raise children, if I come to want any, and then it might be worth it for legal&economic reasons, but... 59. career: Translator (Hungarian, English, some German). Just starting out. 60. hugs or kisses: Hugs. Not from everyone, though. 61. lips or eyes: is this a “what do I notice on people as attractive” question? In person: nothing. I do notice the eyes of some actors I’m a fan of, and the lips of one cause they’re always improbably red. 62. shorter or taller: I’m of average height for a woman, I think. 63. older or younger: Than whom? I’m 27. 64. nice arms or nice stomach: again: is this a “what do I notice on people as attractive” question? Again, nothing. 65. hook up or relationship: Mostly neither, but I have to say relatinship since I have something like that at the moment, and I never had a hook up. 66. troublemaker or hesitant: I’m mostly hesitant, except about stuff like climbing a tree on a hike or stuff like that.

have you ever 67. kissed a stranger: No. I’m definitely not attracted to strangers. 68. drank hard liquor: yes, to try the tase, or to settle my stomach, but always just a minimal amount. 69. lost glasses/contact lenses: Nope. Never had contacts. I did sit on my glasses on a holiday once, and they warped pretty badly, so I was without them for a little over a week... 70. turned someone down: Yes. All three people that ever asked me out, all of them after one or two dates (I felt like I had to try), all before I heard or thought about aromanticism and asexuality. The second involved a lot of tears, but then I was friends with him for a long time after that. 71. sex on the first date: Nope. 72. broken someone’s heart: I don’t think so. It might be on the horizon, though, if the boy I’m dating comes to love me and comes to hate the fact that I don’t feel that strongly... 73. had your heart broken: Romantically: nope, still 100% aromantic. It breaks my heart what we’re doing to the planet (and ourselves), though. Seriously, I have cried about that more than once. 74. been arrested: No, not even close. 75. cried when someone died: I think I only cried at the funeral, not when I got the news. 76. fallen for a friend: Never been in love!

do you believe in 77. yourself: Repeat after me: “I believe in myself.” 78. miracles: I believe in some stuff that sceptics would say is unscientific nonsense, partly cause I’ve experienced some of it, partly cause I’m hoping it’s true, but I wouldn’t classify them as miracles. 79. love at first sight: for some people, I guess it’s possible, I mean, there are enough stories about it. 80. santa claus: we don’t even have him in Hungary in the same form as americans&co do :) A dude based on Saint Nicholas comes on his day, the 6th of December and brings chocolate, tangerines and peanuts, but I know it’s my parents :) Christmas gifts are brought by the baby Jesus’s angels (again, also known as my parents). 81. kiss on the first date: Is that something to believe in? If you want it, do it, it doesn’t have anything to do with me. 82. angels: Ehh... no? Souls or similar, yes, some kind of afterlife, yes, because I don't think the human mind is just flesh, but anything as specific as angels? I have no way of knowing, and I don’t want to dismiss other religions by saying I believe in something that’s specific to only a few of them, so...

other 83. current best friend’s name: I only have the one close friend, who I’m “dating”, and I’m not telling you his name. (I’m bad at relationships. Not just romantic ones, but friendly ones as well. I have people I’m friendly with, but maintaining a relationship outside fixed programs like school, work, tai chi training, choir practice, etc. - how does one even do that?! I’m too lazy and too selfishly satisfied with my own company to spend my energy on that, apparently.) 84. eye color: green, but brownish (is that hazel?) 85. favorite movie: see question 45 about favorite TV show, except I never actually managed to write fanfic for any of them. How do I choose?!?! Star Wars, I guess? Return of the Jedi, if I have to choose one from them. The Matrix, if you want something a bit less fandom-y.

[stranger-who-writes-fiction]

Aaaanyways, I wanna put on my comic-art-nerd hat and talk about panel-to-panel action in that Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow preview because yes, I have been staring at it for days, and yes, I will continue to do so until it is released next month! XD

LET’S GO:

I apologize in advance for the funky formatting, there’s an art to tumblr text posts and I...have not mastered it. XD

It’ll go image, then analysis.

Also, just to be clear: I’m not doing this so much to be like, ‘WOW THIS IS GROUNDBREAKING, STUNNING, NEVER-BEEN-DONE!’ In fact, many comics do the things I’m gonna highlight/geek out over! Rather, it’s more about, like. Appreciating the construction of the pages, panels, etc.

Okay, so! Page 1, the SPLASH PAGE

Okay, so, admittedly, I don’t have a ton to say about this opening image, largely because it is one single illustration as opposed to a series of panels. But even then! It quickly establishes that we’re not on earth--the foliage, rock formations, and GIANT WOOLY FRIEND(?) give that away. Also! Said rock formations and wooly friend’s horns frame our new character RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PAGE, letting you know that even though she is tiny, she is important. And, I will just say, I love the dust effects on the ground. The repeated semi-circle shapes evoke the feeling of rhythmic, galloping hoof beats, even without actual movement or sound. Lovely.

And now, PAGE 2!

So, I’ve highlighted panel 3, but before I get there! Panels 1 & 2 do such a nice job of giving us an idea as to the actual, physical size of these two characters, as well as the power dynamic at play. This random dude takes up the WHOLE DANG PANEL with his bulging muscles and is framed in an up-shot; in panel 2, Ruthye is not only shown from above--we’re literally looking down at her--she is also relegated to the bottom half of the panel. Additionally, it’s a great way to show the action of her turning to pull the sword from her belt, obscuring it from both our view and his, to bring out the ‘big reveal’ in the next panel.

Speaking of! Panel 3! Our establishing shot! We’re introduced to the full interior of this tavern. We see where everything is placed--walls, furniture, and perhaps most importantly, the various patrons!

Establishing shots are so important to have in visual media because they help us, the reader/viewer, to orient all of the various components within a sequence or scene.  

It’s also helpful for the artists because then they can better maintain things like screen direction and continuity.

If we don’t have a shot like this, then subsequent action can become confusing to the point of distraction.

YOU WOULD BE SURPRISED how often this is neglected or forgotten in comics! Scenes will change abruptly and it’s like, ‘wait, wait, where are we?’ 

ADDITIONALLY, the establishing shot not only gives us basic spatial information, it ~sets the mood~ XD Setting! Atmosphere! Genre! It’s all here.

I mentioned this in my prior post, that the art gives off some intense fantasy vibes, what with the organic shapes, rough textures, and color palette.

Folks who’ve read advanced copies have described the book as a fantasy/western; that extends even to the series title design! The designer revealed that the western look of the text is deliberate.

So A+ to the art team for NAILING IT!

Okay, on to page 3!

Not a ton of notes on this one, but that’s only because the prior page has done such a solid job of laying out the space, as well as the relationship between these two characters WITH JUST WITH THE ART. (Okay, okay, the words help too. XD) Once more, we see this big brute tower over Ruthye, panel- to-panel; he’s always ‘large and in charge’ regardless of the angle. Even in that final panel! Ruthye is the largest element because she’s closer to us, but the guy is still positioned ‘above’ her, literally talking down to Ruthye from over his shoulder. 

(And HMMMM. That unassuming stranger in the back there, underneath the lanterns that seem to act as an arrow pointing right at her...could she be...important?)

(Her tiny size would seem to imply that she isn’t...AND YET...)

PAGE 4!

MMMM them FRAMES within FRAMES!

Okay, but before I get into that, I do wanna briefly mention panel size and shape.

All of these pages (save for 1 and 7, which are full-page illustrations) pretty much stick to a very traditional panel structure. Each panel is completely enclosed, and there is zero variety in terms of shape. It’s all rectangles.

BUT. The size and orientation change--take, for instance, that ‘skinny’ horizontal panel up top, the way it perfectly suits the ‘shape’ of the elements/action being shown. It’s a close on Kara’s wrist/hand, reaching out for the sword in the guy’s belt. 

I mention this because often, writers don’t dictate stuff like panel layout in a script. They will give the artist the number of panels, and what needs to be included in each one, but the actual, overall organization of the page? Totally up to the artist.

So! Really knowing what you want to highlight and convey is key, because you can use the panels’ size/shape/relation to other panels to ENHANCE those images, like that sword grabbing up top!

AND! Another thing I love about that panel in particular is the way that Kara’s hand and the sword make a tiny frame for Ruthye! Who is, again, VERY TINY! 

I keep mentioning the size thing because it’s a nice bit of economical visual storytelling; the child character is going to be smaller than the adult characters anyway, but by calling attention to it repeatedly, we as the viewer are constantly reminded that this kid is small! She needs help! She needs to be protected! Which is like, the whole premise of the inciting incident. XD Good stuff!

(Also more dot eyes in comics that aren’t humor comics, please.) 

There’s another frame down in panel 3 as well! Evely uses this device several times throughout this sequence; it’s such a great use of the multiple swords in the scene, AND shows that she can really pack all of the characters in there without cutting any of them off/obscuring them behind various objects.

And like, NO TANGENTS, which takes some serious skillz.

ESPECIALLY when you consider all that beautiful linework. LOOK AT THEM INKS.

...In particular, look at them inks in panel 5! The shading on the booth is done in such a manner that the ‘grain’ of the ink defines the perspective. We’re looking down at Kara, from above. This is a helpful little bit of orientation, as there’s not a ton of room around Kara to have any other perspective lines to help sell the angle. 

ALSO, NOTE THE POSITION OF MR. BRUTE IN PANEL 4, AND THEN KARA’S EYELINE IN PANEL 5. It will be important in...

PAGE 5!

Allow me to explain:

In panel four on page 4, we see the guy reach for his sword, his body language revealing that he’s intent on moving towards Kara.

In panel 5 on the same page, we get that lovely down shot of Kara looking right up at us, the viewer. But also, the implication is that she’s ACTUALLY looking at Tough Guy, because in the next page, we see that he’s positioned himself right above her to swing that sword down!

(My apologies for the poor attempts at drawn annotations.) 

There’s no action lines cluttering up the beautiful art; Not-Conan’s hair, rather, acts as the action line/guiding ‘arc’ so that we can better follow the movement.

Kara, likewise, doesn’t have any action lines on her, but her posture and hair act as visual cues to tell us that she slides over in the booth, out of the way of the sword.

In particular, the way her right shoulder/arm draws closer to her body, and the way her left hand comes up to offset the way she’s now positioned, really sells the ‘slide’. 

More beautiful indicators of movement in panel 2; the hair, the action line on the sword, the torn fabric of Kara’s shirt.

Panel 3 brings more FRAMES WITHIN FRAMES! And, actually, as I’m looking at it? I think it could be argued that we actually have a FRAME within a FRAME within a FRAME!

First frame: Panel border, natch.

Second frame: Goofus’ sword, arm, and face frame Kara.

Third frame: Kara’s arm and sword work with Goofus’ head again to frame tiny Krypto.

LAYERS.

And now, a note about colors!

I said before that I love the palette at play. The earthy tones give the entire setting an organic feel--this is not a high-tech locale! We’re dealing with natural materials here.

BUT THEN THOSE BLUES!

Not only do we get that nice split complementary thing happening with the yellow, but it also signals the blue of Kara’s costume, a little hint of which is revealed in the final page.

And, like. It’s night time. XD

(I just gotta say, love the cold blue outside the window next to Kara’s table, contrasted with the warm yellow of the interior. Even though this is a bar, there’s still that element of like. Coziness.)

Also! Even though the overall palette is heavy on the yellows, Kara’s hair is more saturated and leans towards a warmer yellow, while the rest of the yellows in the scene are cooler. Thus! We have CONTRAST! Our eyes are drawn right to her.

And I know--I KNOW--that SG comics twitter already hates King because Kara’s DRINKING and personally I want more of the story/context before I pass any judgement but I must admit, the shapes? In panel 5? With Kara drinking in the foreground? 

I kinda love it.

Also mmmm-MMMM, more of them SOFT BLUES.

Okay. PAGE 6!

Now THIS PAGE is what inspired this whole endeavor.

Because, okay. If I’ve not made it clear by now: I read a lot of comics.

And I generally enjoy all of the comics I read!

But, what I’ve found lately, is that if I don’t enjoy a comic, it’s because I, as a reader, find myself confused by the art.

Confused as in, the art is hard to follow.

That can be because the color design/ink work doesn’t have enough contrast, or the composition is muddled, but most frequently?

It’s poor panel-to-panel action.

When there’s no flow/connection between what’s happening in one panel vs. another, suddenly it’s on you, as the reader, to do a lot more of the work as you go through the scene. And sometimes! We don’t even have enough visual information to DO that work!

So when I read this, I was like, ‘ah, thank you, an easy flow of action for my brain to appreciate.’ XD

AND SO. Panel 1! Same stuff we’ve been seeing! The ink work, hair, clothing details, etc. all work to show us which direction each character is moving. Kara’s arm and jacket all point to her slamming that mug in the dude’s face; dude’s sword serves as a GIANT ARROW illustrating the path of his stab.

Not much to say on panels 2 and 3 other than: FACIAL EXPRESSIONS! And also, HAIR!!!

PANEL FOOOOUR!!!!

Love. This. Panel.

Again, I really love that there are no action lines slapped on top of this gorgeous art, all of the movement is conveyed in the inks, body language, clothes, and so on.

Like. There’s a conscious decision, here, to not have Kara’s hair obscuring the dude’s torso, and that’s good! Because his belt/uhh...kilt? Skirt? Is showing us the speed and direction of his jab; if Kara’s hair were in the way, it would break up the flow.

BUT THEN HOW TO SHOW THAT KARA’S DIPPING FORWARD???

Note the ties on her cuff, and the inks on her jacket!

There’s nothing special happening with Krypto, BTW. I just circled him because he’s a Good Boy who deserves to be noticed.

Panel 5, more of the same, the inks telling us how these characters are moving through space. ALSO, the length of the lines conveys speed without needing to add something distracting/obscure the art with a ‘blur’ effect.

Final panel! I. LOVE. THIS.

Particularly the movement in Kara’s hair, just. Beautiful shape language.

But in addition! You’ve got that LOVELY line of action in Kara’s spine as she flips him over, the sword likewise curved in the direction of the throw.

And of course, the dude is crumpling in the appropriate direction, bent in the middle as he collides with the table to--quite literally--complete the circle.

Also, just. The characterization here, is PHENOMENAL.

People (read: irate fans on twitter) have expressed concern (read: complained) about Kara having a sword. Some have even gone so far as to suggest that Kara’s basically a murderer now, because she’s using a weapon.

Never mind the fact that in an episode of JLU, Supergirl used both a sword AND a gun to defend herself while in Skartaris because she had no powers. 

Except we see here that Kara DOESN’T USE THE SWORD to take the guy out, she uses his own force against him. She only uses the swords in the FINAL PAGE in a type of ‘yield’ fashion.

(This particular ‘fight’ sequence reminded me of Brainy’s fighting style in the show so of course that added to my overall enjoyment.)

Like, Kara’s got no powers here, she very well could have used the sword to defend herself, and would...kinda be justified.

But she didn’t! 

Like. Even drunk and therefore out of it, Kara 1.) Steps in to help that kid and 2.) doesn’t use superpowered lethal force on the guy. (I mean, she can’t use her super powers anyway, what with the red sun, but you get the idea.)

And like, the flourish there, of the arms, the way the jacket swirls around her, like a gymnast sticking the landing, GAAAAAHHHH I just love it. It’s great.

Okay, FINAL PAGE, #7:

I mean. What more can I say? EVELY AND LOPES, MAN.

Just some top notch art.

(Also get it guys, it’s a LITERAL shirt rip! XD)

(And look! There’s that tiny bit of blue!)

But anyways, if you’ve made it this far, I applaud you, and thank you for indulging my desire to just. Geek out over one of my favorite comic artists drawing one of my favorite comic characters.

And just to like, reiterate, I’m not suggesting that this comic is THE BEST EVER or that it’s going to redefine the medium, or anything. XD Everything I’ve mentioned here is...pretty basic storytelling mechanics. Watch any movie, and you’ll see all this same stuff at work.

RATHER, this whole post is more about...admiring two artists who clearly know what they’re doing.

And they’re doing it so well! :D

TL;DR: I’m so excited that the Supergirl book has Evely and Lopes, guys. So. Excited. 

[fumbliesthots]

2018 - Year in Review

Hot Mess Bitch à la Jan Bon - the most impressive dish I made (or participated in making) this year, on 31 Dec 2018. I guess now this space is for photos of what I did on NYE, following tradition of last year. It comprised of honeyed butter biscuit (baked from scratch!), sausage cream gravy, garlic polenta grits, cheesy scrambled eggs, topped with more uncased Italian sausage. 

I was kinda procrastinating writing this post I guess because I was placing such unnecessarily high expectations on this post to be the motherlode of all reflections this year, especially since I have started keeping a handwritten (almost-daily) journal recently. Sorry bloggy, I hope you don’t feel jealous.

This year feels too short and too long at once. I almost cannot remember what I did for the first half of the year (partly also because my journal writing habit only started post-June when Janz handed me my first journal book and encouraged me to start writing in it so that I can remember and process stuff that happened in my life). 

Maybe it feels long because I accidentally travelled a little too much this year (What blasphemy! Like too much is a thing when it comes to travelling?) But that was mostly thanks to the opportunity to do so from my work trips. Let me count the cities: Rome, Venice, Vienna, Prague, Budapest, Brussels, Bruges, Krabi, NYC, Seattle, Vancouver, Melaka.

Oh yeah and I turned 30 this year too. It’s surprisingly uneventful, but I guess this year is when I started feeling more like an adult, less wet behind the ears and more okay with being myself. Especially since now at work I’m surrounded by so many young people, and it feels kinda weird that they seem to look up to me and come to me for advice. 

New things I tried in 2018

Improv. I took an improv 101 class at the beginning of the year. It was good fun and pushed me out of my comfort zone to be less self-conscious and more spontaneous. I see some potential in using the concept of improv for the design process and I hope one day I can convince my colleagues to go check it out as well.

Piloxing. I wanted to make use of ActiveSG credits for the first time, and the idea of mixing pilates and kickboxing intrigued me. It was ok, pretty fun and not as intense as I expected. It’s kinda like a high-impact cardio exercise. Not my thing but I enjoyed it while it lasted.

Speaking at public events. I was invited as a speaker and panelist at General Assembly to talk about my experience as a designer. The first one was scary (and embarrassingly eventful). The next 2 as a panelist were more relaxed as I didn’t need to prepare that much. There is kind of an adrenaline kick doing this kind of thing sometimes, haha. 

Journal writing. I have to thank Janz for encouraging this habit by giving me a notebook for my birthday. I think writing down thoughts and just things that happen in the day really helps me process stuff and is kinda therapeutic. I would write about conversations I had, things I observed, and maybe even stuff I watched. 

PTTC aka Physical Touch Treatment Centre. This might sound a bit weird but in our Krabi UX teambonding trip, the girls were training me to be more touchy in showing sayang. That included patting heads and linking hands. And now I have become kinda good at it. (Okay.. this still sounds weird!)

Confessed to a boy. Rejected by said boy. But now we are good friends and I think I’m happy with that. And I think I’m pretty low maintenance and self-sufficient as a person/non-gf. This year I also concluded my online dating experiment and the result is the realisation that I don’t really need to find a partner to have a fulfilled life. Actually I already knew that from the start but this was a validation. But I’m grateful to have met so many guys from outside of my social bubble that I wouldn’t have met in otherwise. And the experience of meeting strangers also trained me to be more thick skin and be more socially confident. Glad I did this.

Things that made me sad in 2018

Colleagues that left. Early this year I was kinda shook when Michelle left. Even though we are not that close as friends, she and I had a good partnership as my researcher. Then Leonard, then Lydia, our dear POs. And then Gaofeng and Ernie left. My fellow Easy Team pioneers from the very beginning. :(

Macbook died. Itchy backside made me prematurely install Mojave OS before it was company-approved. My computer ended up getting corrupted and the IT guy tried so hard to help me save it for 2 whole weeks. In the end with all means tried, there was no choice to reformat the whole thing, and I lost all my files. That was an emotional 2 weeks.

SG team got booted off project. I found out after coming back from a trip and it hit me like a suddenly flying slap. But I don’t think it was anyone’s fault, just circumstances. And now I actually look forward to new challenges after this project comes to an end for me.

Chief Laihock’s passing. Chief was a great leader and strong pillar holding up GUI for the past 11 years, an inspiration to me and many people who know him. His passing was a sudden one and because of this keeping the kampung became a problem. I feel for the core team members who are working so hard to keep things running and continuing to fight this fight. Such passion is admirable and makes me want to do whatever I can to help.

Things I’m happy about in 2018

Read more books. Somehow managed to squeeze in more books into my reading diet this year. I’ve been gifted and lent many books this year and I guess because of that I was obliged to finish them, and that turned out to be a good thing. I also somehow unknowingly influenced some young’ins to start reading as a habit too, which surprised me. 

Learnt to monkey bar. I had a random goal of learning how to monkey bar in September. I’ve never ever been able to do it, when I first saw other kids playing on it in pri sch and felt left out and embarrassed because I couldn’t. But this year I decided to see if I could train myself to do it, perhaps because the bar was always at the fitness station downstairs mocking me. And in November I showed it. That sense of jubilance and exhilaration I had when I finally made that first swing from one bar to the next was amazing. And in the next couple of weeks of training I finally made it through the entire ladder. Woohoo!

Strengthened bonding with colleagues. This year the UX team has expanded quite a bit. We welcomed in Janz, Lily, Oppa, Shirshir, Shishi, Lulu and Lala. And we got close almost instantly, which I think is unusual for team of such size. Boss has done an incredible job in scaling positive team culture somehow, and I think for next year our challenge is how to spread this culture beyond just our team. 

Launched a fundraising campaign for GUI. The GUI web team’s work did not slack off since the launch of the 2.0 website last year. We did another release of 2.1 with some improvements after conducting some usability/feedback session with folks. And then in August when news of Laihock’s passing triggered the urgency to raise funds to keep GUI going and keep the land, we worked very hard meeting every week to come up with ideas on how to start a fundraising and awareness campaign. We pushed this campaign out in November and now to continue the efforts to tweak and optimise the message. Grateful to have a supportive volunteer team working hard together on this.

Didn’t take an MC this year. Last year I got sick quite often, almost once every 2 months. Then Gaofeng gave a suggestion that intrigued me. Exercise more. I decided to give it a try. And I’m proud to report that ever since I started exercising every alternate morning, my MC count this year has declined by 100%. I still got sick once or twice this year but it wasn’t so serious that I had to be bedridden. And I found going for a jog in the morning actually lifts my mood for the day. Two birds, bingo.

Knitted a hat. I joined our office’s Knit For Love group to learn how to knit a hat, and all knitted items would be donated to Singapore Cancer Society. I managed to finish mine in about 2-3 months after lots of getting stuck and having help. I was surprised that there are actually quite a few knitting enthusiasts in our office. And even to see a different side to those very notoriously fierce colleagues in the office - they were very kind and patient when it comes to teaching and guiding others. I love discovering new kinder sides of people.

Favourite things of 2018

Nonfiction Book - Crucial Conversations. Borrowed this from Lydia’s bookshelf. We even have a book review club at her house now to share our learnings. This book has valuable advice on how to handle tough conversations and I hope I could put it to proper practice and truly learn to do it.  

Fiction Book - A Dog’s Purpose. A gift from Janz she got at Strand Bookstore. This was a surprisingly thought-provoking book despite the silliness of the premise. Best of all, it’s only USD 48 cents. 

Podcast - Harry Potter and the Sacred Text. This one was recommended by Wei, a new friend I made from the DesignOps summit. Nothing can replace my love for Invisibilia but this one was another surprising gem. I like how they dissect and examine each chapter through lens of different themes and that made this beloved series even more meaningful.

Youtube Channel - Vox. I like the variety of smart educational and timely content presented in a visually appealing and simple to understand way. I especially liked their series explaining music and politics.

Music - Tessa Violet. Dodie. Chillhop radio. Pomplamoose.

Day memory - Cycling in Bruges with Eos. This was literally my idea of a perfect day come true. We had a cheap and cheerful breakfast at Hema, then rented a bike, and cycled all the way to Belgium in cool autumn weather, passing beautiful fields of flowers and farmlands and smelly cows. Had a sumptuous seafood lunch before heading back to town, serendipitously stumbling into an art gallery opening with free wine. Had a pigeon for dinner, then ending the day listening to jazz at a bar. 

Trip memory - NYC/Seattle/Vancouver with Janz. I liked our adventurous/slipshod spirit and the resulting shenanigans we got into because of that. And all our silly and thoughtful conversations in between. And the food we got to try and coming up with a weird rating system for them. 

Bonus - Making a Chinese rap music video with Jess. Jess and I bonded a lot during this 3-week Prague rotation trip. I liked practicing our rap every day walking to and from our office and hotel, and basically everywhere we go. She is such an easy person to have fun with, and we get a kick filming ourselves and annoying Leonard along the way (bless him).

Things to work on in 2019

Figure out how to be a leader. I recently got promoted to Design Ops Lead of the team. There will be a lot of dealing with people and processes, and that is something I have to learn how to manoeuvre. But having a new challenge is always exciting.

Being more articulate and assertive. Along with the above might mean learning how to better communicate expectations and handling tough situations.

Plan more and be less slipshod about things. There are times to be happy-go-lucky and be spontaneous about things. But wisdom is knowing when to pay attention and take care of the details, especially when the outcome might affect other people, not just myself.

Being more caring with my parents. Last year one of my resolutions was to improve my communication with my parents. I tried by listening to more chinese podcasts and speaking chinese more often. But I realised sometimes talking is not enough, it’s the tone and body language. How you show attention and care that matters. 

Continue staying healthy. In the mind and the body. That means keeping and perhaps even increasing my regular exercise regime. And meditate more regularly! 

So here’s what I did on the first day of 2019 – Taking a beautiful hike with my lovely buddies! It’s a gonna be happy new year, oh yes.

[lapeaudelamemoire]

Tbh I disagree greatly with what people say about this being the age of immediate gratification

I mean sure it seems that way and we trick or fool ourselves into that as well but really it's not like we don't actually have to wait for things to happen

I actually hate online shopping the older I get; you click a few things and type a bit and - nothing happens. It's not like the item(s) suddenly appear magically in your hands. You usually have to wait for them to arrive and maybe this is much more instant elsewhere in the world but here in Sg, you usually gotta wait a week or two before the thing you order shows up; not to mention anything you might buy or commission from an independent artist which requires waiting time between ordering and posting it already because they have a queue and the item needs to be made.

Literally shopping online involves more waiting than going to the store and actually picking whatever you want or need up with your hands and then taking it home with you immediately.

And as for interaction online like people 'instantly' liking your posts or something, first requires people who follow you and also usually still requires waiting for it to be seen.

The apps and tech we have today drastically shorten waiting times; even to seconds or minutes, but we ourselves have not inherently evolved in our speed. Therefore imo, this purported instantaneity is a false sense that we are lulled into thinking true.

An Uber may be 5 minutes away but if the driver makes a wrong turn the ETA increases. Tech really only exposes the disparity of human speed and inhuman speed; it makes us think things happen faster than they do and that we function more rapidly than is true; or cause us to seek to function at a similar pace to keep up.

As tech speeds increase, and our patience is shortened by ease of accessibility, the test of our patience and our capacity for it will only become more profound. You can see it already in the way we freak out when we send a message on a platform and note that it has been seen but not replied to.

In the film Her, Samantha says sometime late in the film that she is not burdened with a physical body; but I don't think, as much as sometimes it might cross my mind, that it's necessarily more burdensome to have a body. Our connection to tangible things is profound and keeps us anchored; if we truly existed only as intangibilities spiralling when we feel a lack of identity could be fatal in loss. How does one show all the complexities and nuance without body language, touch, facial expression? We would lose so many ways of expression and communication without a body; reduced in the number of ways to show affection.

In Tagore's essay Nationalism in India he says that the country has lost the sense of pain in her limbs that signals to her that there is something amiss. If we were but software without occupying a space in the tangible world, how would the concept of pain translate? Would we be able to feel it still? Where, and how?

In my fatigue I can make a sound to give vent or a sign of it, change the position of my body. When we post something online in text we seek to transcribe that expression. Tacitly we understand that there is no replacement for this; that the words 'I am tired' does not translate quite the same.

I think when we say technology isolates us these days it's a concern to do with lack of physical engagement with our world, a sense of matter being displaced by digital. There is danger in too much abstraction; I don't think that's something I've ever tried to deny.

We seem to often leave our bodies behind. In trauma therapy there's more talking and cognitive behavioural therapy than there is emphasis on the physicality it ties into. Our image of a therapy session is sitting in an office. In religion there is mortification of the body but this is often in tandem with repression of physical desires such as lust or physical energy built up from anger. In society we cover our bodies up. There are things not acceptable for our bodies to do or parts to be seen in society.

What I am trying to say is - my body is starved for touch, of existing in the physical reality it inhabits. That limbic brain connection my therapist tells me about is not being met; something is shrivelling inside. I've forgotten to look after my face; my body that my mind inhabits. The rush of buying something on a screen and completing a transaction dies almost immediately because nothing has changed in reality; my hands hold nothing, the thread slackens to a delayed reward, and my brain thinks it has been tricked, feels hollow.

Cats and animals, our pets, are smart but also uninhibited - they come to us and ask to be petted when they wish it; or they play with an object, or in the words of some, they stim.

Sometimes I think about someone I loved touching me, but lately their body begins to fade away in my mind; I know it's only memory, that it no longer exists for me now, and that they may well have changed - become thinner, plumper, have new tattoos... so the image fades.

But I wish it were just as easy as being a cat and being able to return somewhere and be touched and pet.

It's nearly the end of the year now, two months and a week left to go, and it strikes me that I've been touched or held immensely little in the past year; year and a half. The only things that arrive for me and that I touch are books, and my laptop. Physically, no building anchors me here. There isn't a monument or a place grounded so that when I see it I feel it is a rock in a place.

Some places have that gravitas; but here it feels more mirage and slippery than concrete. The buildings change faces so often that the only ones that don't are residential buildings built like stacked shoeboxes. Marina Bay Sands or the Gardens by the Bay slip like soap from your mind and palms.

I suppose what this whole thing is trying to say is that my heart, wherever it is, is not in this place. Our hearts are not in the digital verse of the internet; mine is not. But nor is it in this country, and it is slipping away from memory. It's not in Sydney or Australia at all; it's not in London; I don't know where. It flies somewhere in the waiting pause of the space between clicking Order and the opening the parcel some two weeks after, when there's nothing in between to hold the structure; only on its way, in transit.

[aion-rsa]

Loki Collectibles: Key God of Mischief Comics to Own for Marvel Fans

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This article is presented by:

When you really think about it, there is probably no comics character more responsible for more amazing runs of Marvel books than Asgard’s God of Mischief, Loki Laufeyson. This is partly due to the secretly high concentration of outstanding Thor runs through the ages, but, as you’ll see, Loki is largely responsible on page for the birth of the shared Marvel Comics Universe, which puts their horns in a lot of different comics pies. 

Loki is about to be hotter than ever, which means that key single issues from his comics history are going to become even more collectible than before…and sound investments if you’re hoping to own some pieces of comics history that will appreciate in value over time.

Journey Into Mystery #85

Just two issues prior to this one, Stan Lee, Larry Lieber, and Jack Kirby had relaunched a Twilight Zone-ey anthology book into Marvel’s home for big, booming Norse god superheroics.

Journey Into Mystery #85 continued the development of that world, and brought Thor’s trickster brother into the Marvel U. This is a fairly straightforward Marvel silver age book, with a silly plot and some stunning, boldly imaginative art from King Kirby. The costumes and characters aren’t quite settled in iconography yet, but much of what Loki will become is here in these pages. 

Journey Into Mystery #85 is massively collectible already, and will only be worth more as the show makes him more popular, but it’s also an indelible piece of comics history: Lee and Kirby are really cranking up the Marvel universe here, and you can see the green shoots of the inventiveness and brilliance that makes Kirby the greatest ever on some of these pages. If you’ve got a couple thousand bucks lying around, that is – in addition to being the first appearance of Loki, Journey Into Mystery #85 is the first appearance of Odin, Heimdall, and Balder as well. You’re looking at spending at least $2,000 for a copy, and probably a couple times that if you want one in decent shape.

Buy Journey Into Mystery #85 here.

Avengers #1

There came a day like no other, and that day set the stage for the Marvel Universe as we know it. Avengers #1 is the true birth of the shared Marvel comics world, the first time Marvel characters stopped being guest stars in other books and started existing within them, just off screen. And it’s all because of Loki. Imprisoned on the Isle of Silence by their brother, Loki uses their magic to trick the world into thinking the Hulk is rampaging. That brings together four heroes new to the world: Thor, Ant-Man, Wasp and Iron Man. Those four team up to defeat the God of Mischief, throw him in a lead tank, and then agree to work together moving forward. And the rest was history. 

Avengers #1 was always highly collectible, but it’s also extremely popular, so you’ll have lots of chances to snag a copy if you can’t afford to spend $30,000 on an authentic, quality copy from the 1960s. The book has been reprinted several times, most recently in 2016, with its original cover. And there are convention exclusive reprints with J. Scott Campbell covers (sketch and colored) that can be had for only $30.

Buy Avengers (1963) #1 here.

Thor #353

Walter Simonson may be the definitive Thor storyteller in Marvel history. His behemoth run was the foundation text for arguably the best MCU film, Thor: Ragnarok, and saw him give the defining takes on just about all of Asgard, from Thor himself all the way to minor, secondary villains like Skurge the Executioner or Lorelei. But not many characters did better under Simonson’s watch than Loki. Thor #353 is one of many high points of this run, featuring Loki and Thor fighting alongside Odin to stop Surtur’s rampage. 

Compared to earlier entries on this list, the Simonson run as a whole is MUCH more collector friendly. Thor #353 can be had in perfect condition for cheaper than many new books. In fact, you’re as likely to find this issue as part of a lot of Simonson Thor comics as you are to find it alone. And that’s great – the whole run is worth your time.

Buy Thor #353 here.

Thor (2007) #5

It’s hard to believe now, but there was a period in the early 2000s when Marvel just stopped publishing Thor comics. They ended one run with a magnificent Ragnarok, let Asgard lie dormant for almost 3 years, and then brought the Norse gods back in a big way, and nobody was more changed by that return than Loki. She returned from the post-Ragnarok nothingness as a woman in this issue, written by J. Michael Straczynski and dazzlingly drawn by Olivier Coipel. Expect this to be referenced in the new series.

Thor #5 is almost certainly underpriced as of publication. You can find copies of the regular cover for close to cover price, while the issue’s lone variant by J. Scott Campbell is going for in the $25-$40 range. This is almost certain to go up because of the show, and if Loki spends any serious screen time as a woman, it should go up by a lot. Now might be a good time to get in on the ground floor. 

Buy Thor (2007) #5 here.

Journey Into Mystery #622

No run of Loki stories has likely had a greater influence on the MCU’s take on Loki than what Kieron Gillen did with him, starting at the end of the big Siege crossover, Loki dies at the hands of The Sentry, and is immediately resurrected as a preteen version of himself. From there on, Kid Loki becomes one of the most beloved Marvel comics characters of the past decade: tricky, razor smart, self-aware, and ambiguous.

This issue in particular, with excellent pencils from Doug Brathwaite, is an incredible deep dive on who Loki is and what role they serve in the story of Asgard, and the combination of quality and intermedia importance is helping this issue do some numbers online – the second printing in particular, featuring a photo cover of Tom Hiddleston fully be-horned in his movie Loki getup, is going for between $75 and $100. That will probably calm down some after the show, but I’d bet not by a ton, considering where the story might go.

Buy Journey Into Mystery #622 here.

Young Avengers #1

Gillen’s time shepherding Kid Loki continues as the trickster teen assembles yet another cadre of Avengers. It features a team of Marvel sidekicks and legacy heroes echoing their predecessors – the children of Vision and Scarlet Witch (Wiccan and Speed) and Wiccan’s boyfriend Hulkling; Kate Bishop, the second and better Hawkeye; kid Loki; Noh-Varr, the Marvel Boy from an alternate reality; depowered mutant genius Prodigy; and alternate reality ass kicker Ms. America. 

So between it’s likely importance to the future of the MCU (this team is almost guaranteed to be the foundation of the inevitable Young Avengers MCU entry) and the staggeringly gorgeous art from Jamie McKelvie, this book is a must buy. Fortunately, there are lots of options – Marvel knew this would be a hit when it launched, so they had multiple variant covers (from both Skottie Young and Scott Pilgrim’s Bryan Lee O’Malley, as well as the now-traditional blank sketch variant). You can find original covers for a little over cover price, and variants in the $10-$25 range. The second printing of the first issue – with a black, white and blue sketch version of the O’Malley variant – can be found in that range too.

Buy Young Avengers (2013) #1 here.

Loki: Agent of Asgard #1

If Kieron Gillen’s story is about what Loki means to the story of the Marvel Universe, Al Ewing’s Loki: Agent of Asgard is about what Loki means to their own story. As Young Avengers wrapped, Kid Loki was destroyed and replaced by a Hiddlestonier older version, one obsessed with establishing their own heroism. So they cut a deal: the ruling All-Mother triumvirate in Asgard would wipe old Loki stories from Asgardian records in exchange for Loki completing missions on their behalf on Earth. Agent of Asgard is half heist comic, half deep character piece, with an evil old version of Loki being the series’ recurring villain. Ewing and artist Lee Garbett turn in a witty, fun book that has some of the finest Loki character work in all ten realms. 

Prices on this book have risen steeply of late, likely in anticipation of everything with Loki’s name on it getting hot. As such, you’ll be hard pressed to find a copy of even the first printing going for less than $15, and the real heavy hitter here – the sketch variant of Frank Cho’s Jim Steranko homaging Loki cover – is up over $200.

Buy Loki: Agent of Asgard #1 here.

Unbeatable Squirrel Girl #8

In this issue of Ryan North and Erica Henderson’s top-tier Marvel run, New York is under attack from Ratatoskr, the trash talking squirrel who runs messages up and down the World Tree. Squirrel Girl battles Ratatoskr’s rumor mongering with the help of Loki, Odinson, Jane Foster Thor, and SG’s roommate, Nancy Whitehead, who it turns out is the author of a great deal of Asgardian fan fiction. Only with all the Norse Gods replaced by cats. Loki, of course, finds this hilarious, and spends the rest of the story with Cat Thor’s head, and it is utterly delightful for everyone except their very frustrated brother. 

It’s not an impactful moment in Loki’s history. It does nothing to the MU’s metanarrative, and until they decide to bring in the Netflix properties and use Squirrel Girl as Jessica Jones and Luke Cage’s au pair like they did in the comics, this will have nothing to do with the MCU. So you can find this for cheaper than cover price, or as part of lots that are cumulatively MUCH cheaper than cover price. And that’s great: these Squirrel Girl stories were terrific. They’re worth every penny at twice the price.

Buy Unbeatable Squirrel Girl (2015) #8 here.

Vote Loki #1

Christopher Hastings and Langdon Foss do something interesting with Loki here: instead of using him to comment on the Marvel Universe, they use them to comment on ours. Vote Loki was a send up of American electoral politics, mocking the…ever-changing nature of the American electorate by having Loki campaign for President as an open, avowed, amoral liar. I’ll be honest, there are moments where this one still lands a little shakily, but it’s certainly improved since its unfortunate release timing (in the middle of the 2016 election). It’s smart and fun, and from the looks of the Loki trailer, probably important. 

Like everything else with Loki in the title, the market has gone a little crazy for these of late. The main covers are going for multiple times the cover price, and the variants (particularly the Valerio Schiti incentive cover for the first issue) up in the 3 and 4 figures. Wild for a book that’s this new.

Buy Vote Loki #1 here.

Thor #4

Some of these books are here because they’re brilliant investigations of comic storytelling, or deeply personal character studies of complex, multifaceted comics characters with a half century of history. And some are on here because they have a scene where Thanos tells the Norse goddess of death “It’s not you, it’s me” in the middle of a sham wedding in Hel. Thor #4 is almost at the big War of the Realms, the culmination of Jason Aaron’s nearly ten years writing Thor, and it’s an absolute blast. If you read the excellent Aaron run from start to finish, this will be one of your favorite issues. 

If you get this issue’s James Harren variant – obtainable at less than $10 – you’ll be very happy with yourself for doing it.

cnx.cmd.push(function() { cnx({ playerId: "106e33c0-3911-473c-b599-b1426db57530", }).render("0270c398a82f44f49c23c16122516796"); });

Buy Thor (2018) #4 here.

The post Loki Collectibles: Key God of Mischief Comics to Own for Marvel Fans appeared first on Den of Geek.

from Den of Geek https://ift.tt/3wgMw73

[geralldhopp]

Is Your Water a Source of Plant Disease? How to Sample and Find Out.

After reading the previous posts in this series, you’re now aware of WHICH pathogens can be spread through your irrigation water, WHERE they can accumulate, and WHY that’s important.  We’re now moving on to posts covering WHAT you can do about it!

This post will walk you through how to sample water sources on your farm, and which tests you can run to determine if your water is helping – or hurting – your crop.

This is the third article in a series about water sanitation. The goal of this series is to get you reflecting on your own irrigation system before you are faced with a problem.  The first post covered where problems are likely to occur in your greenhouse ; the second  covered the types of pathogens found in water . Posts over the next few weeks will cover interpreting lab tests, on-farm disease monitoring, and water treatment options.  These will be good refresher resources, so make sure to bookmark them.

Water Testing Labs

Several labs in Ontario will process water samples, and check for everything from nutrient levels, to pesticide residues, to fungal and bacterial loads. Most sample for pathogens using a “DNA multi-scan”, which just means they are looking bits of DNA from a wide range of known pathogenic species.  Labs currently accepting grower water samples include:

Lab Services, University of Guelph (https://afl.uoguelph.ca/water-quality-monitoring)

SGS-Agri Food Labs (http://www.agtest.com/pricelist/SGS_Agri-food_List_GH.pdf)

A&L Canada Laboratories (https://www.pdd.alcanada.com/)

But part of getting useful results from these labs is knowing WHERE and HOW to properly sample.  We’ve compiled a list of do’s and don’ts to help you get started.

Water Sampling – DO’s

Checking your water for pathogens isn’t something you should be doing ONLY when you think you have a disease problem. Just like regular monitoring for insect pests in your IPM program, checking your water should be part of your regular integrated disease management (IDM).

You’ll also want to check different points along your irrigation system to determine which water sources are potentially contaminated, and how this is flowing through your greenhouse.

When it comes to WHEN, WHERE and HOW to sample, consider the following DO’s.

1. DO monitor at frequencies that relate to the level of risk.  These include: Different points in the production cycle (especially before a new crop goes in); when changes in source water quality occur (e.g. switching from roof water to water stored in a cistern), when sensitive crops are present (based crop type and/or stage – this is why knowing your crop’s susceptibility to diseases BEFORE you plant is so important); when labour is available (we know NO ONE is going to sample water in the middle of the Mother’s Day rush).

A long sampling pole can help you grab samples from ponds and cisterns that are difficult to access.

2. DO Sample from ALL sources of water, and from various points along your irrigation system. This can reveal potential sources of contamination, and gives you a picture of how pathogens are  spreading throughout your farm. Testing along your irrigation system can also reveal issues with water pressure and distribution which may be causing wet or dry spots in the crop which can also lead to disease problems. Try to sample from locations that are close to where the water enters the production area (e.g. in the first few rows or benches) and those that are near the end of the line to get a better idea of the problems you might be facing.

3. DO sample recirculating water BEFORE and AFTER water treatment. This tells you if your chosen water treatment strategy is actually working like it’s supposed to. NEVER assume that it’s functioning properly!  All systems need maintenance, and some need proper levels of active ingredient(s) to work, which can change frequently depending on the amount of organic matter in the system.  Be safe not sorry, and follow a regular testing schedule to maintain your investment.

Various points along your irrigation system you should sample regularly. To truly understand your water quality throughout the farm, it’s better to sample from multiple points at once than one point frequently.  Diagram by C. Dayboll.

4. DO follow the guidelines suggested by your chosen lab. They’ve outlined these to make sure get you the BEST results.  For example, the University of Guelph Lab services has specific guidelines for collecting water samples as well as general shipping/handling guidelines.  Make sure to read over these thoroughly BEFORE collecting and sending samples. In a pinch, you can use disposable water bottles to collect samples, but ensure they rinsed with your source water well before taking a sample. Never use vessels that were used for another purpose (e.g. scoops for mixing fertilizer, your morning coffee cup of choice) to grab samples as they may leave residue in your sample that can affect your results.

Make sure your water samples are well labeled so you can interpret the results.  Include range numbers or locations to help you remember what was sampled.

5. DO have a consultant or specialist help you interpret the results of any tests. They can help you figure out which pathogens are pests of concern, and what to do about them. More on the interpretation of various tests in coming up in the next blog post!

Water Sampling – DON’Ts

What NOT to do can be as important as what to do.  Consider these don’ts and make sure to think of others that may apply to your own farm.

1.DON’T leave sampling until the last minute. Sampling should be a proactive activity, not a reactive one. But if you’re like many of us, a lack of time and too much on your plate can mean that your water samples are taken after crops have gone in, or you spot something that it’s right. Schedule regular water sampling into your calendar (or a trusted employee’s calendar!) and make sure it gets done ahead of sensitive crop cycles or your big spring season.

2.DON’T be afraid to send in several samples at once, despite the cost. Whether you like to do a more through check of your irrigation systems twice a year, or you are facing a problem and don’t know where to start, more samples can help you pinpoint a problem more accurately in the greenhouse, saving you time and headaches.

3. DON’T forget to factor in costs of regular sampling into your pest management costs.  DNA multiscan tests (that sample for all potential pathogens down to species) cost around $250/sample; a supply of 25 Petri films (see more on this below; used for general counts of unspecified fungi in water) cost $135.  This is a drop in the bucket compared to the 10-50% crop losses I’ve seen due to pathogens in recirculating water, so make room for them in your pest control budget.  If you’re experiencing an active pathogen issue, and aren’t sure of the source or how to treat, OMAFRA specialists may be able to cover some of the testing costs to help you figure out the problem.

On-Farm Water Testing

As a compliment to lab testing, on-farm testing protocols have also been developed by the Soil Research Group, as part of a Canadian Agriculture Partnership project.  These methods use adapted Petri dishes, called “Petri-films” to grow fungi that may be in your water. Although more labour intensive and less specific than lab testing, the Petri-film method is relatively cheap and allows for rapid results and repeated testing.  More on this method and it’s advantages (and disadvantages) will be discussed in an upcoming post in this series.

A 3M Yeast and Mold Petri Film growing various fungi. These films can be used to help quantify the amount of fungal pathogens in your irrigation water, and are a useful component of regular water testing.

        Is Your Water a Source of Plant Disease? How to Sample and Find Out. published first on https://yeuhoavn.tumblr.com/

[theonyxpath]

This Thursday we are saying bye to the Deluxe M20 Technocracy Reloaded Kickstarter! It’s been a great campaign, and our Kickstarter concierge, James, has been the epitome of good humor and helpfulness. Which is really not surprising since that has been how he has handled all of our KSs since he came aboard.

As of this writing, we’re over $167,000 and at 2022 backers! We’ve achieved 20+ Stretch Goals, which I go into more detail on in the Kickstarter section in the Blurbs! below, but I’m super excited about the TR Players’ Companion project that has been created with sections on:

Constructs and Symposiums (and then expanded by a later SG)

Digital Web 3.0 and the expanded Digital Web 3.0.2.

Technomancers’ Toybox 20 and the Q-Division bonus section

Unlikely Allies 1, 2, & 3

Mission Statement short scenarios

This, to me, is one of the magic bonuses of Kickstarters. Previously, we tabled the idea of a separate Digital Web 3.0 book as not fitting into our schedule – but now, thanks to this KS, we can really focus on the best of the best ideas for its section, there are equally awesome other sections, and backers get the PDF for free.

If you recall, we had to cancel the last Kickstarter, which was for our new fantasy-genre game Legendlore because of the impact of Covid-19. Which is a phrase you’re going to hear a few more times in the blog today. We didn’t want Legendlore sitting fallow for too long though, so we’ve tweaked the KS and are looking to restart it next Tuesday, June the 2nd at 2pm EDT! Cross with us once more to The Realm!

The thing is, we’ve never before cancelled a Kickstarter, and we’re not completely sure how we should restart it. Not the mechanical Kickstarter process – that we have down! – but things like how best to communicate with our backers from the first attempt, and what effect will seeing our promo stuff again have on possible new backers.

One decision we made was based on the fact that like almost all of our Kickstarters these days, the text for Legendlore was finished before we went to the Kickstarter. Since we had started providing our backers with that text in sections when I made the call to cancel, we just sent backers the rest of the full text. It seemed only fair, and something like a thank you for their support.

That means that just going through that same reveal process isn’t likely to be much fun for those folks who stepped up to support us the first time. We clearly need to be able to find other ways to make the KS interesting and fun for those folks, and if we have to make those adjustments anyway, why deliver the text in stages at all?

So we took the text, made it all into a PDF, and we’re putting it up for free on DTRPG this Wednesday! That way, if you’re interested, and maybe missed the first KS, you’ll have almost a full week to read through the text and see if it sounds interesting enough to back! (Narrator’s Voice: It is.)

Also Actual Plays are coming! Keep an eye out this week and then into the KS month for Actual Plays of Legendlore on our Twitch streams, along with some surprise DMs that are extremely excited to run the game!

Let The Streets Run Red art by Niko Pope

Meanwhile, I’m going to take this opportunity to give you another problem we’ve encountered that can be blamed on the impact of Covid-19. It seems like over a month ago that I ordered the PoD proof for Night Horrors: Nameless and Accursed for Mage: The Awakening 2e. It seems that the package has been lost, and because USPS‘s system is all wonky due to restrictions and manpower issues due to the pandemic, no one was able to warn us or even find where the package is.

Grrr.

Supposedly, a solution has been arrived at, so soooon MtA2e fans!

TC: Aeon Jumpstart art by Aaron Riley

That’s more of a single-product disruption, but across our happy little industry, convention after convention have cancelled for this year because of the, say it with me, impact of Covid-19. That effects a lot of companies who rely on them as sales venues, and even more now that Gen Con itself has cancelled for 2020. Yikes! So, to the blog reader who posted that I hadn’t updated the Convention Schedule below… well, I was blocking that out because it’s just too sad. It’s no schedule at all.

For us, cons aren’t about the sales, it’s that we enjoy meeting with folks face to face. We enjoy answering questions, spreading the word about who we are and what we do, and demoing our game lines. It’s good business, and it’s fun.

CofD: Contagion Chronicle art by Luis Sanz

Fortunately, virtual cons do allow a lot of what we value in conventions to happen, as our crew who have sat in on panels and games have reported back to the team. And if you checked out some of the comments when I mused about us doing a virtual con a few weeks ago in this blog, they brought up the fact that some of our community can’t make it to cons, so a virtual meeting is actually better than a location they can’t get to.

Hmmm.

Finally, just want to mention that we are doing our next round of Developer Town Halls again next week, so once again, if you have any questions I will pass them on to our developers: the keepers of our-

Many Worlds, One Path!

Blurbs!

Kickstarter!

With only a couple of days left, the M20 Technocracy Reloaded Kickstarter has passed 2000 backer operatives, is over 400% funded, and has achieved a massive TWENTY Stretch Goals consisting of a Storytellers Screen unlock, an unlock of more original Mage PDFs, Backers’ Exclusive T-Shirt, Wallpaper, 2 Novellas, a Jumpstart with Starter Characters, and building the Technocracy Reloaded Player’s Companion PDF:

Constructs and Symposiums (and then expanded by a later SG)

Digital Web 3.0 and the expanded Digital Web 3.0.2.

Technomancers’ Toybox 20 and the Q-Division bonus section

Unlikely Allies 1, 2, & 3

Mission Statement short scenarios

Highlights of M20 Technocracy Reloaded include:

An Operative’s Handbook that provides a detailed overview of life in the Technocratic Union, describing the organization of the Union, the Conventions, and the roles that sympathizers, extraordinary citizens, and Enlightened Operatives play in the overall structure of the Technocracy.

An examination of Technocratic initiatives on a global scale.

Devices, procedures, and hypertech used by the Technocratic Union that explores the Enlightened Science, allowing operatives to apply similar effects in the field, if they have sufficient understanding of the principles that allow these gadgets to function.

A comprehensive list of citizens, cyborgs, operatives, progenitor creations, and allies to use as NPCs.

Storyteller support that explores story seeds and metaplot to shape a chronicle for their needs.

Next Kickstarter: Next week, on Tuesday, June 2nd at 2pm Eastern US time, return with us to The Realm of Legendlore!

Grab your friends and escape to another world!

You’ve found an enchanted portal — a transition point — between worlds. The portal, called a Crossing, takes you to a world you thought only existed in novels and films: a magical land where dragons roam the skies, orcs and hobgoblins terrorize weary travelers, and unicorns prance through the forest. It is a world where humans join other peoples such as elves, trolls, dwarves, changelings, and the dreaded creatures who steal the night. It is a world of fantasy — of imagination.

It is the Realm.

It is Legendlore.

Onyx Path Media!

Once More Unto The Breach with more exciting Scion Actual Play with the Terrific Trio!

As always, this Friday’s Onyx Pathcast will be on Podbean or your favorite podcast venue! https://onyxpathcast.podbean.com/

The Technocracy are back for another lesson on Tuesday, May 26th at 9 PM EDT on the Onyx Path Publishing Twitch Channel. twitch.tv/theonyxpath

Watch the stream. Learn. Apply what you learn. Form Consensus.

Red Moon Roleplaying continue their actual play of Technocracy Reloaded right here: https://youtu.be/Ejadz0UxAqE Tune in to this one for unusual and alarming Paradox effects!

Come tune in to our Twitch channel for a schedule including:

Vampire: The Masquerade – Chicago by Night Noir

Behind the Screen: Chronicles of Darkness

Pugmire – Paws & Claws

Changeling: The Lost – Littlebrook Reunion

Changeling: The Dreaming – The Last Faerie Tale

Mage: The Awakening – Occultists Anonymous

Scarred Lands – Purge of the Serpentholds

Dark Eras Werewolf: The Forsaken – Fractured Territories

Get watching for some fantastic insight into how to run these wonderful games

You can subscribe to our channel over on twitch.tv/theonyxpath to catch up with any episodes you missed!

Come take a look at our YouTube channel, youtube.com/user/theonyxpath, where you can find a whole load of videos of actual plays, dissections of our games, and more, including:

Onyx Path News: https://youtu.be/5V13ybdnSeA

Changeling: The Dreaming – The Last Faerie Tale: https://youtu.be/XzsGiAD28HQ

Scarred Lands: Purge of the Serpentholds: https://youtu.be/DeqXI6yHRc0

Mage: The Ascension – Technocracy Reloaded: https://youtu.be/JPjV53Pnykg

Hunter: The Vigil – Hometown Heroes: https://youtu.be/b9dH7c1e6N0

Changeling: The Lost – Littlebrook Reunion: https://youtu.be/foWnoLCl0RI

Vampire: The Masquerade – Blood City Chicago by Night: https://youtu.be/apfUcZvnKGU

Chronicles of Darkness – Seattle by Streetlight: https://youtu.be/POpwhdnZVZw

Subscribe to our channel and click the bell icon if you want to be notified whenever new news videos and uploads come online!

The 307 RPG Podcast released an episode all to do with the Archetypes in They Came from Beneath the Sea!:  https://307rpg.com/?p=282

The Botch Pit have released a wonderful new guide for Geist: The Sin-Eaters right here. Do give them a like and a subscribe: https://youtu.be/LzjngqtuQW8

Vorpal Tales commenced an actual play of They Came from Beneath the Sea! over on their Twitch channel! Find them here: https://twitch.tv/vorpaltales

Utility Muffin Labs, home of the 25 Years of Vampire: The Masquerade podcast, have released a glowing review of The Chicago Folios right here: https://utilitymuffinlabs.com/25-years-of-vampire-the-masquerade?author=51a88e2ee4b035d1810e13fe

The Story Told Podcast continue with the third episode of their Demon: The Descent series right here: https://thestorytold.libsyn.com/the-aggregate-choir-file-3 In our penultimate episode of Demon, the Unbound try to get to the root of the God-Machine’s plan in East Berlin…  

Occultists Anonymous are back with their amazing Mage: The Awakening series:

Episode 100: Reaching Beyond  We return to the Rookery cabal after 6 months have passed. Songbird has traveled deep into the Astral Realm, while new problems start to plague the Rookery, and the search for the Fifth Grimoire continues. https://youtu.be/974GF7SyCTE

Episode 101: New Mysteries Atratus investigates the oddly empty graveyards and cemeteries in Jersey City. Songbird goes to speak with her mentor, Hadramiel, about making a new Dominion and they come up with a terrible idea. Wyrd keeps an eye on most of Manhattan from her new command center. https://youtu.be/IdDC0LvOIDU

Please check these out and let us know if you find or produce any actual plays of our games! We’d love to feature you!

Electronic Gaming!

As we find ways to enable our community to more easily play our games, the Onyx Dice Rolling App is live! Our dev team has been doing updates since we launched based on the excellent use-case comments by our community, and this thing is awesome! (Seriously, you need to roll 100 dice for Exalted? This app has you covered.)

On Amazon and Barnes & Noble!

You can now read our fiction from the comfort and convenience of your Kindle (from Amazon) and Nook (from Barnes & Noble).

If you enjoy these or any other of our books, please help us by writing reviews on the site of the sales venue from which you bought it. Reviews really, really help us get folks interested in our amazing fiction!

Our selection includes these latest fiction books:

Our Sales Partners!

We’re working with Studio2 to get Pugmire and Monarchies of Mau out into stores, as well as to individuals through their online store. You can pick up the traditionally printed main book, the screen, and the official Pugmire dice through our friends there! https://studio2publishing.com/search?q=pugmire

We’ve added Prince’s Gambit to our Studio2 catalog: https://studio2publishing.com/products/prince-s-gambit-card-game

Now, we’ve added Changeling: The Lost Second Edition products to Studio2‘s store! See them here: https://studio2publishing.com/collections/all-products/changeling-the-lost

Scion 2e books and other products are available now at Studio2: https://studio2publishing.com/blogs/new-releases/scion-second-edition-book-one-origin-now-available-at-your-local-retailer-or-online

Looking for our Deluxe or Prestige Edition books? Try this link! http://www.indiepressrevolution.com/xcart/Onyx-Path-Publishing/

And you can order Pugmire, Monarchies of Mau, Cavaliers of Mars, and Changeling: The Lost 2e at the same link! And now Scion Origin and Scion Hero and Trinity Continuum Core and Trinity Continuum: Aeon are available to order!

As always, you can find Onyx Path’s titles at DriveThruRPG.com!

On Sale This Week!

This week, we’re doing something really different! The text only PDF for Legendlore crosses into our world via DriveThruRPG on Wednesday!

With the Kickstarter restarting next Tuesday, download and read this PDF beforehand and you too can be transported to The Realm through Legendlore!

Also on Wednesday, we offer Part 3 of Yugman’s Guide to Ghelspad, for the Scarred Lands on DTRPG!

Conventions!

Though dates are subject to change due to the current COVID-19 outbreak, here’s what’s left of our current list of upcoming conventions (and really, we’re just waiting for this last one to be cancelled even though it’s Nov/Dec). Instead, keep an eye out here for the virtual conventions we’re going to be involved with:

PAX Unplugged: https://unplugged.paxsite.com/

And now, the new project status updates!

Development Status from Eddy Webb! (Projects in bold have changed status since last week.):

First Draft (The first phase of a project that is about the work being done by writers, not dev prep.)

Exalted Essay Collection (Exalted)

Adversaries of the Righteous (Exalted 3rd Edition)

The Clades Companion (Deviant: The Renegades)

The Devoted Companion (Deviant: The Renegades)

Saints and Monsters (Scion 2nd Edition)

Wild Hunt (Scion 2nd Edition)

Dead Man’s Rust (Scarred Lands)

Trinity Continuum: Anima

Redlines

Dragon-Blooded Novella #2 (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Hundred Devil’s Night Parade (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Trinity Continuum: Adventure! core (Trinity Continuum: Adventure!)

Novas Worldwide (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Exalted Essence Edition (Exalted 3rd Edition)

M20 Rich Bastard’s Guide To Magick (Mage: The Ascension 20th Anniversary)

V5 The Faithful Undead (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)

V5 Trails of Ash and Bone (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)

V5 Forbidden Religions (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)

Second Draft

Many-Faced Strangers – Lunars Companion (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Kith and Kin (Changeling: The Lost 2e)

Dearly Bleak – Novella (Deviant: The Renegades)

Mission Statements (Trinity Continuum: Aeon)

Contagion Chronicle Ready-Made Characters (Chronicles of Darkness)

Under Alien Suns (Trinity Continuum: Aeon)

Development

TC: Aberrant Reference Screen (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Across the Eight Directions (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Contagion Chronicle: Global Outbreaks (Chronicles of Darkness)

M20 Victorian Mage (Mage: the Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition)

Exigents (Exalted 3rd Edition)

N!ternational Wrestling Entertainment (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Assassins (Trinity Continuum Core)

Manuscript Approval

Crucible of Legends (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Post-Approval Development

Scion: Demigod (Scion 2nd Edition)

Editing

Lunars Novella (Rosenberg) (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Mummy: The Curse 2nd Edition core rulebook (Mummy: The Curse 2nd Edition)

Player’s Guide to the Contagion Chronicle (Chronicles of Darkness)

Contagion Chronicle Jumpstart (Chronicles of Darkness)

TC: Aberrant Jumpstart (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Trinity Continuum Jumpstart (Trinity Continuum)

Masks of the Mythos (Scion 2nd Edition)

LARP Rules (Scion 2nd Edition)

Heirs to the Shogunate (Exalted 3rd Edition)

The Book of Lasting Death (Mummy: The Curse 2e)

They Came From Beyond the Grave! (They Came From!)

Scion: Dragon (Scion 2nd Edition)

Post-Editing Development

City of the Towered Tombs (Cavaliers of Mars)

W20 Shattered Dreams Gift Cards (Werewolf: The Apocalypse 20th)

Cults of the Blood Gods (Vampire: The Masquerade 5th Edition)

Hunter: The Vigil 2e core (Hunter: The Vigil 2nd Edition)

Trinity Continuum: Aberrant core (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Deviant: The Renegades (Deviant: The Renegades)

Monsters of the Deep (They Came From Beneath the Sea!)

Legendlore core book (Legendlore)

Pirates of Pugmire KS-Added Adventure (Realms of Pugmire)

Tales of Aquatic Terror (They Came From Beneath the Sea!)

Terra Firma (Trinity Continuum: Aeon)

One Foot in the Grave Jumpstart (Geist: The Sin-Eaters 2e)

Indexing

Art Direction from Mike Chaney!

In Art Direction

Scion Titanomachy

Tales of Aquatic Terror

WoD Ghost Hunters – KS final art: One more piece coming in still.

Aberrant – Almost all AD’d, finally. Some amazing comic art. Signing off on sketches.

Hunter: The Vigil 2e

Mummy 2

Deviant – Dividing up among current artists.

Legendlore – Creating text preview PDF.

Technocracy Reloaded (KS)

Cults of the Blood God – Rolling along.

Scion: Dragon – Waiting on art notes.

Masks of the Mythos – Waiting on art notes.

Scion: Demigod – Reviewing art notes.

They Came From Beyond the Grave! (KS) – Waiting for sketches.

In Layout

Yugman’s Guide to Ghelspad

Vigil Watch

TC Aeon Terra Firma – Over to Josh.

V5 Let the Streets Run Red – Working on it.

Pugmire Adventure

Proofing

Trinity Aeon Jumpstart – New artist taking care of finishing missing art.

TCFBTS Heroic Land Dwellers – Inputting backer errata.

Lunars: Fangs at the Gate – Gathering Backer PDF errata.

Scion Companion – Just waiting for one tweaked piece.

Contagion Chronicle – Corrections with Josh.

Cavaliers of Mars: City of the Towered Tombs

Magic Item Decks (Scarred Lands)

Yugman’s Guide Support Decks (Scarred Lands)

At Press

Night Horrors : Nameless and Accursed – PoD proof on the way. See the story about this above.

TCFBTS Screen and Booklet

They Came from Beneath the Sea!

Creature Collection 5e – Prepping PoD.

Pirates of Pugmire – Errata input.

Pirates of Pugmire Screen

Duke Rollo Book – Prepping PoD.

Buried Bones: Creating in the Realms of Pugmire (Realms of Pugmire) – Prepping Advance PDF.

Yugman’s Guide to Scarred Lands PDF #3 on sales Weds on DTRPG.

Legendlore text only PDF free on DTRPG on Weds.

Today’s Reason to Celebrate!

Today in the US is Memorial Day, the holiday set aside to remember those who gave their lives for our country. As always, as I sit to write this on a Monday – as the holiday is always on the last Monday in May – I wonder at the fact that none of my friends in the armed services paid that ultimate price. Nor any family members going back several generations. They did their service, and they came home. Today is the day for those who did not.

[mikocat8]

I want 8 abs!

For all my life until 5 months ago, I didn’t see myself as someone who was very fit. In fact, I was quite a couch potato, only exercising maybe up to twice a week if I really felt like it. I would run every Sunday with my buddies along the Alexandra canal as we have been doing it for years. It just felt like I was doing the bare minimum to keep myself barely healthy, so long as I keep up my immunity. I didn’t even know that there was such a thing as personal trainers in Singapore.

 I was still having my favourite bubble tea twice a week and eating fast food weekly, and that was just how I was for a really long time. However, every time I open Instagram, I would see photos and videos shared by my friends and some celebrities that I follow, showing them working out at the gym or fit pics of themselves in clothes looking very dapper. Even when I browse through men’s magazines, I would also see photos of men having a very fit body and looking smart in their clothes.

I sometimes think to myself, what would it be like if I could also be really fit myself? I was just a little bit jealous of what I saw, and I think that it would be nice if I could look fit and strong myself too. I would look really good in my clothes and fit well into them. To have a lean and toned body and a set of 8 packs… it felt like a dream to have. When I look at myself in the mirror, it was quite disappointing. 

I wasn’t obese, but I would consider myself about average with a tummy. I would wrestle with such thoughts pretty often, telling myself that I should do something about it, but it never really came to fruition. Normally I would just forget about it after a while and just carry on with my life, not really knowing when the day will come when I will actually get to exercising more and getting fit.

I did try going to the gym before. Using the credits that the government gave everyone to use for sports and recreational activities, I would go to the gym to try working out weekly. However, I kept losing momentum and there were days where I just felt unmotivated to work out. I even tried diets, to bulk up, but it felt tough for me and it was difficult having to adjust my habits and eating preferences to eating so much protein without all the sauces. It just wasn’t enjoyable for me, and I felt like I didn’t want to torture myself with all of that. I did not know what to do about it, so I just left it as it was.

One day, I happened to see a friend’s Instagram post about how he joined a programme to work out and how he was really happy with the results as he lost a lot of weight. I was also quite shocked at his transformation and wanted to find out what programme that was. I texted him and asked him for the details, and he referred me to this personal training website, 

Personal Training Singapore. I went on to check the website out and saw that they offered a range of services, from losing weight to building muscles, as well as IPPT training. It looked really promising, so I took a look at their ‘Build Muscle’ page and was quite impressed at their description and reviews. They train you by assigning a personal trainer to you, that will help encourage and pace your progress to achieving the kind of physique and look that you would like to have. They even offer packages to choose from, which some include customised meal plans and even a personal grocery trip, although they all come with a price. I have never had a personal trainer before, let alone attempt such a kind of thing. But I felt pretty sold on what I saw on the site and decided to get in touch with them to kickstart my fitness journey.

I spoke to the staff over the phone and decided to start with a rapid results package for building muscles, as I felt like this was my chance to achieve the 8 packs that I had always wanted. The package came with customised meal plans, which could help me find better alternatives to eat since I am not fully familiar with customising my meals to my taste while keeping it suitable for the kind of exercise and outcome that I was going for. I also discovered that they train at many of the Active SG gyms, which is great as I usually go to the one near my house in Toa Payoh and it is convenient for me. I guess this means no more excuses since I have a personal trainer now and that it’s at my convenience!

My personal trainer was really great and helpful, as he was able to work with my schedule and meet my needs, and was really patient with me during the personal training sessions. Before the training started, we actually met to talk about what I wanted to achieve and do personal profiling to better understand my needs and see what we can do to achieve the body that I wanted - which was my 8 packs (Let’s build some muscles, yeah!). He was really nice and understanding about it - knowing that I found the bulking diet really difficult to stick to since it didn’t suit my taste, he planned out meals that incorporated ingredients that could improve the taste of the meals which I could enjoy. In terms of working out, as I do not exercise very often, so we slowly built on the intensity of exercises and we stuck to meeting to workout twice a week. My personal trainer would encourage me during exercises, which really helped me whenever I felt like giving up.

Currently, it has been 5 months since I started this programme, and I must say that I absolutely do not regret joining this at all! It has tremendously helped me to be more motivated to achieve my goals of wanting an 8-pack and I have to admit - It’s been a journey that hasn’t been easy but I now have the 8-pack abs that I once dreamed of! I really enjoyed the journey, and it has been really rewarding to see the transformation that takes place both physically and mentally. I feel much sharper and alert and so much more confident than I ever was. It really is so much better when you have a personal trainer to keep you on track and give valuable advice to improve on. I recommend Personal Training Singapore as the best personal trainers in Singapore that you should definitely go for!