#the great adventures of wally and his friends

[oli-draw]

Clara Jiemba

Interesting fact: She has Australian roots, just like her father. The stepmother has Scottish roots, but this does not prevent her from loving Clara's father.

[gffa]

I adore your batman stuff very much. I recently read the Wayne Family Adventures, and now I really want to read some more. Do you have recommendations on comic lines to follow?

Hi! I'm glad you're having fun with getting into comics and enjoying the posts around here, it's always nice to have new blood (or returning blood, in my case)! <3 I would give a gentle caution in that Wayne Family Adventures is sort of in a class of its own in a lot of ways, the characterization is much softer and fluffier, while the mainline comics are darker and messier, the characters are definitely not always as nice as they are as in WFA. That's no shade on either of them, just that I want to give a quick warning that if you're stepping from one to the other, the culture shock can sometimes be more than you're expecting. (And also keep in mind that comics are a shifting landscape, there's no one "true" version of many of the landmark moments of characters' lives, you'll see events often retold, you'll see comics that later get retconned, you'll see comics that are in different continuities/set before or after a universe-wide reboot, etc. Don't worry about it, just recognize that you're reading a story to enjoy that story, not as Hard Continuity!) That said, some of the lighter comics that I think would be fun if you're looking to come over from WFA are:

Li'l Gotham is a cute parody series that's super adorable, has some lovely art, and is nice little self-contained stories that are humorous. It's not in mainline continuity and it's even softer than WFA, but it's deeply charming and it's a fun, quick read.

Super Sons (2017) by Peter Tomasi is in mainline continuity and it's focused on Damian Wayne and Jonathan Kent becoming friends, bickering all the while, and getting into hijinks. It tends to lean more humorous and cute, so it's a nice stepping stone up to regular comics.

Robin and Batman (2022) by Jeff Lemire and Dustin Nguyen is a good litmus test for whether you might like regular comics--it's a short 3-issue mini-series focused on Dick's early days as Robin and the complicated, thorny relationship he has with Bruce about it. It's one of my favorite, it balances what a terrible gremlin he was with what a little angel he was and the emotional beats are painful in the best way.

Robin: Year One (2000) and Batgirl: Year One (2003) by Scott Beatty/Chuck Dixon and Marcos Martín/Javier Pulido are good places to start for both characters, and hold up okay considering their age. The art is a bit stylized in a way I really like, it lends it a charming old-fashioned vibe while still being pretty to look at, and there's some solid character moments in both.

Nightwing (2016) by various (starts with Tim Seeley, but it's been several authors by now) is one of my go-to recs, I think it's a great jumping on point, has a lot of really nice art, and often tells fun stories, as Dick has some of the best connections to various other characters in the universe.

Nightwing (2016) by Tom Taylor starts with issue #78 and is a great jumping-on point and Taylor's writing is just very light-hearted, action-packed, quippy, and fun. Starting here saves you from having to slog through some of the worse arcs of Dick's series, you get Bruno Redondo's fantastic art, and you can feel the affection for the character, the author and artist love this character and want to make him very cool, as well as they love his relationships with other characters, so you get good Bruce guest appearances, Babs appearances, Damian appearances, Wally appearances, Jon appearances, etc.

Robins: Being Robin by Tim Seeley and Baldemar Rivas was a fun self-contained mini-series that had all the Robins working together and I don't think it should be taken super seriously as a case story, but it had some quality banter, some hilarious moments, and a great look at these chaotic gremlins all shoved into a mini-van together to go solve a case.

Batgirls (2022) by Conrad Michael W./Becky Cloonan and Jorge Corona is focused on Babs, Cass, and Steph as a trio and being adorable together, with some humorous moments, cool art, and fun Batfam moments. It's nice that they get the spotlight and the chance to shine (it's their book, so they get the majority of the cool moments) and it's not super-long and you can jump right in.

Batman: The Knight by Chip Zdarsky and Carmine Di Giandomenico is a "Bruce travels the world to learn the skills he needs to become Batman" and I'm really in love with the way Zdarsky writes a Bruce who is deeply complicated, messy, coming from a place of loving deeply, but also this man has twenty seven different flavors of fucked up trauma going on in that hell brain of his. Zdarsky's current run on the main Batman title has been my jam, but that's a bit of a darker leap than this one, and I think this one is a great way to get to know Bruce Wayne as a character.

Batman: Urban Legends volume 5 has a story called "The Murder Club" that is basically "Thomas and Martha Wayne are time traveled into the future and see what's become of their son, they're not thrilled about it, but come around when they see the people that love him so deeply--primarily Dick, Damian, and Alfred." and was an absolute BANGER for me for feelings, gorgeous art, and some great character moments.

Batman/Superman: World's Finest (2022) by Mark Waid and Dan Mora is an absolute knock-out, it's Bruce and Clark in their early days of their friendship, where Waid is one of the best writers in the industry for how fun his stories are but also how well he knows the characters, Mora's art is often THE portrayal I think of when I think of the characters, and there's a ton of bonus guest appearances from various characters across DC's universe. Also, I am biased, Dick tags along a lot, as he's still Robin at this point in time, and it's a great dynamic between the three of them.

Batman: One Bad Day: Mr. Freeze by Gerry Duggan and Matteo Scalera was easily the standout of the "One Bad Day" stories for me, it's set in the early days of Bruce & Dick as Batman & Robin and it has ADORABLE sunshine gremlin baby Dick Grayson, a genuinely touching story about Mr. Freeze and his wife, and some beautiful art.

Year One: Batman/Scarecrow (2005) by Bruce Jones and Sean Murphy is a fun look at the early days of Scarecrow, but also has absolutely banger baby Dick Grayson content, there's a scene where Bruce literally just grabs him by the scruff of the neck to haul him out of the way of a crowd about to stampede and it's the funniest thing because that 12 year old could destroy your face with his fists but also Bruce can literally pick him up one-handed. There's some great banter in there and it's just a super fun dynamic.

As you make your way through this list, keep the author/artist and year listings in mind, as often times there are multiple series under the same title and some are more relevant to what you're looking for right now than others. Like, there have been three different volumes of "World's Finest", but I want to direct you specifically to the 2022 version because I think that'll work better for you. Similarly, Nightwing 1996 is one of my faves, but I think the 2016 version will work better at drawing you in right now. This is definitely biased in favor of my faves, but I honestly think they work for good jumping on points for someone new to comics and who's coming from WFA and might not want to get into the messier stuff of the mainline comics right away. Hopefully, you'll enjoy these and anyone else who wants to transition from WFA to reading mainline continuity comics, feel free to join us! Yeah, comics fandom can be a bit of a pill sometimes, but genuinely there's a lot of really fun moments to love and the characters are so much more fun when you're reading their stories with all the history and depth behind them!

[indecisive-dizzy]

Alright the Gravity Falls brain rot is kicking in (aka I watched a 4hr video overanalyzing ATOTS <3 iykyk)

So have a loosely thought out concept of a hypothetical Welcome Home x Gravity Falls au with my "Hear me out!"s This is a long one, you've been warned <3

Wally - Dipper

Sally - Mabel

Julie - Stanley

Frank - Stanford

Eddie - Soos

Barnaby - Wendy

Poppy - Abuelita

Howdy - Gideon

Home - Bill???

Ok hear me out! (under the cut) Please ignore typos <3

Very quick clarification! For this au everyone is at least in their teens and I'm gonna add their ages as I elaborate. Ok? Ok!

Gonna Start with Poppy and Eddie. In this hypothetical au Poppy is Not Eddie's grandmother. Originally I thought of assigning Poppy the role of Lazy Susan but I wanted her to have a closer connection to the rest of the cast. And Abuelita fit the role well enough for me! She's just a sweet homebody who wants to knit and bake in peace. Eddie tells her all about work and Wally and Sally visit. <3

So Poppy and Eddie live together as Roommates/Family. Poppy took Eddie in as a teen (16ish) when she was in her early 20s (22-23?) He views her as a big sister. And she views him as a little brother. Anxiety siblings <3 (yes I hc Eddie has anxiety) Eddie started working for the shack soon after being taken under Poppy's wing. He's a tad forgetful and clumsy but is a very reliable handy man and a good friend! He's got a big heart and worries about Julie sometimes.

Currently, as in the time the au takes place, Eddie is 24 and Poppy is 30-31.

Julie and Frank would in fact make a Fantastic Mabel and Dipper. Tbh I think I've seen the comparison before. Which is exactly why I'm not doing it! They're not twins here but they are childhood friends and very close in age, Frank being slightly older. Currently, Julie is 57(?) and Frank is 58(?). (Ages aren't confirmed, all I know is I want them to be A Bit younger than the Stans. Currently this would put them in their late 20s at the time of the portal incident)

I feel like people sometimes forget that Frank is not against resorting to violence lol. Which is great for post portal Ford (and maybe Paranoia era Ford. bbg was not afraid to use that crossbow.) And Julie is a girl bossing business woman! She's scamming people selling breen to the tourists! Whatever that is! Tbh Big inspo for this decision is Relativity Falls, like I said these two make for great mystery twins.

So! Wally (15) as a teenage Dipper! It's just Wally but his curiosity is bumped to 100. Still the same lil guy but he's got a hyperfixation on the supernatural and cryptids. Maybe he hasn't quite figured out his style yet, maybe he's a bit more awkward, I dunno.

He kinda didn't want to spend his summer here but ends up enjoying himself as he makes friends and gets to over indulge his curiosity.

Sally (15) is Wally's adopted sister! By sheer coincidence they have the same birthday but Sally always points out that she's older because she was "born at sunrise!" She's very adventurous and is often the one leading their escapades. I imagine she meets this aus equivalent of Candy and Grenda at the local theater. Very much wants to be her own person, separating herself from the Adopted Twins thing. Not in a bad way! She loves Wally very much but wants people to see her as Sally! Not just "Wally's Sister."

Barnaby (22) is very laid back and so is Wendy. Yeah I don't actually have a lot to say? Um. He does the bare minimum work but is a good friend to Julie. He's real observant and can tell she's not always as bubbly as she seems But she's also his boss so he doesn't pry. Instead just offering a distraction or a rare bit of advice..

Oh! There's a parallel with him and Wally and Wendy and Dipper. Except Wally just wants to be friends with Barnaby but doesn't quite know how to communicate that. Maybe he just kinda follows him around the shack hoping to figure out what to say?

Thinking their relationship is literally the recent quote from Clown's Q&A: "Barnaby meeting Wally felt like business as usual, and Wally meeting Barnaby felt like meeting the whole world." yeah that's it. Sums it up Perfectly <3 Wally thinks Barnaby is really cool and friendly. And he wants a friend who treats him like he's mature. Like he's 15, not 5. And Barnaby does that right out the gate. Calls him kid but obviously doesn't treat him like a small child.

Ahem. Capitalism. Howdy's (21) a filthy capitalist and wants the shack for Profit. I don't think he'd resort to literal breaking and entering to get the deed? Can't make Profit from jail if he gets caught. But he's definitely trying to buy the property off of Julie. Maybe we stray further from Gravity Falls canon and say he gets an early redemption bc I'm a sucker for this goof. It would be sometime after taking the shack (and losing it.) Oh but he does summon the Evil. Can't break the law if the law doesn't account for Interdimensional Demons!

On that note, Yes Howdy could be Stanley. But again. That's the easy way out! Also in my brain that would make,, idk Barnaby? Ford. And I couldn't do that.

Ok final (wh) character. Home. So I'm on the side of Home Isn't Evil/The Antagonist. He's just a guy (house)! A sassy fella! But someone's gotta be the Eldritch Horror and Unfortunately, Home,,, well he's a lil quirky!

But idk How to incorporate Home. They speak in onomatopoeias! They're a house! Is Home now a Vague 2D House Shaped Demon? Do the have Limbs? Wear a top hat? Do they talk now? Home speaking words feels cursed. But I genuinely don't what else to do? Maybe we suspend our disbelief and they still talk through banging shutters. Everyone just understands them bc Cartoon logic pffff maybe they have subtitles projected into your brain that only you can see idk lol.

So obviously there's Way more GF characters than there are WH characters. insert characters [(y/n)] aren't my thing for aus so that's a no go for me personally. I imagine the town is filled with characters we've heard of outside the neighbors (Ma Beagle of course lives in town.) Maybe some of Howdy's family is here who knows. And the rest would be randos or ocs I guess! Tho I don't believe Julie's siblings are in town.

Anywho this is all hypothetical and I made it up and retyped things as I went along. I wanted to ramble some nonsense so I did! If you read it, Awesome! You sure did that!

[izzy-art-879]

KND Swap AU: Part 1

A swap/role-reversal AU! I've seen that most swap AUs have Sector V switch roles with the Delightful Children/Sector Z but I decided to do something a little different!

Numbuh 362 - Numbuh 1

Numbuh 86 - Numbuh 2

Numbuh 35 - Numbuh 3

Numbuh 23 - Numbuh 4

Numbuh 60 - Numbuh 5

Sector V is now called Sector VI.

Numbuh 1 (Nigel Uno) is the Supreme Leader of the Kids Next Door and still retains his workaholic personality but is friendly and supportive. Although he loves his job, the pressure does sometimes gets to him.

Numbuh 2 (Hoagie P. Gilligan) is the Head of Decommissioning. He still tells bad jokes but is bossy, stubborn and loud at times. He doesn't hate girls but doesn't want to put them in harm's way, so he can come off as sexist to others.

Numbuh 3 (Kuki Sanban) is a Moonbase Scout and the Sooper-Stealthy Communications Officer. She still retains her cheerful personality but is a bit of a nerd and loves Yipper.

Numbuh 4 (Wally Beetles) is the Incendiary Confectionary Munitions Agent. He's a pretty cheerful but can be pretty crazy at times with his candy weapons. He's also a fan of Rainbow Monkeys.

Numbuh 5 (Abby Lincoln) is the Drill Sergeant at the Kids Next Door Arctic Base. She is strict and stern when training the cadets and has a serious personality. Despite that, she is loyal to the KND and has a laid-back side. She is a close friend of Numbuh 1 and her sister is the formerly Supreme Leader Numbuh 11.

As for Sector VI...

Numbuh 362 (Rachel T. McKenzie) is the workaholic leader of Sector VI and would rather go on missions than hang out and play at the park. She tends to be paranoid and is quick to jump into action. She puts her team before herself and cares deeply about them.

Numbuh 86 (Fanny Fulbright) is the 2x4 Technology Officer of Sector VI. She is a nerd and enjoys eating food. She enjoys cracking bad jokes and puns much to the annoyance of her team. She is also known to play detective whenever there's a mystery.

Numbuh 35 (Bartie Storks) is the Diversionary Tactics Expert and Medical Specialist of Sector VI. He is optimistic, clueless and loves Rainbow Monkeys. He has an aggressive side when someone insults Rainbow Monkeys and takes great care of the hamsters of the Sector VI treehouse.

Numbuh 23 (Virginia Sims) is the Hand-to-Hand Combat Expert and Brawler Weaponry Expert of Sector VI. She is the team's muscle and is the strongest, toughest and wildest member of the team. While she's not very smart, she makes up for it using her fists. She is impulsive and hates Rainbow Monkeys because of how girly they are (Just because she's a girl doesn't mean she has to like Rainbow Monkeys!). She has a crush on Numbuh 35 (but don't you dare tell anyone!).

Numbuh 60 (Patton Drilovsky) is the Second-in-Command and Spy of Sector VI. He is intelligent, calm and book-smart. He is seen as the cool one and usually refers to himself as "Numbuh 60" in the third person. He loves candy and is a candy hunter. He usually goes on candy adventures alone and has a fatherly side. He has a secret crush on Numbuh 86 (despite her bad jokes) and has a fierce rivalry with his older brother Chad.

[scoutswelcomehomeau]

Scouts Welcome Home Au - (Come venture into my childhood memories)

Welcome to Scouts Welcome Home Au! Are you preparing for this trailblazing adventure! Here you will meet and learn a lot about teamwork, obey your elders, understand more about nature and how to survive it and teach to obey your parents, in addition to learning a lot about what is right and what is wrong, with lots of stories, jokes and entertainment

(I based this Au in my childhood on old portograms like TioGil, scouting camp, religious culture, and educational cartoons like Dora the Explorer or Diego, old and striking cartoons that teach about valuing the good things in life in addition to being based a little in my area of product design, as Wally loves to make vases and model as much as I do.)

Scouts Wally (remade)

height: 5'6" ft (1.72 meters)

About: wally Scouts is the head of the camp he is a good leader a loganimal person and full of kisterios, he works many miracles, but at the same time he is a being endowed with wisdom and inegrity, besides being very paternal with all his friends and children that he takes care of, he is always patient with julie, he sulks he always tries to disobey him or break the rules he is a potter in his spare time thats why everyone calls him Scouts wally , not everyone knows anymore he typifies christi

Barnaby

Height: 6'1" ft (1.86 meters)

About: he is very calm and quiet, Barnaby helps to take care of the animals of the camp like: pigs, chickens, cows, oxen, but mainly his sheep, and helps in the planting of the camp and his mother, he always teaches the value of patience and high control, in addition to enjoying life out there, taught about animals, he is often seen as secondary characters, he is always on Potter Wally's tail participating in his adventures and teachings, if not he is either busy, or sleeping somewhere in the field.

Julie Joyful

5 year old child

About: she is a child who is in Wally's teaching bases (actually, she loves to annoy Wally and get him into trouble) wally is always putting her in time for troubles, but in Julie's most peaceful times he teaches her the importance of good behavior and the do's and don'ts, along with the N/S, trying to teach values to everyone, with their songs and activities, although julie is always making some mess

Frank Frankly (Wally's sidekick)

Height: 5'1" ft (1.78 meters)

About: Frank is Wally's helper he helps out at camping events in the woods, Frank is very knowledgeable in forest survival, he loves collecting rocks and fossils he finds around, he is quite wise and knows the proper places, how to set up the camp, how to cook, which plants are edible, which are not, what are the dangers of the forest, he is basically a great forest trailblazer.

(these are the main characters i'm still doing the rest so this will take a while there are 10 in all so… 6 to go but for now i'll post them here just to start this great adventure!)

my main account: @teensadventuresstudio

[nathaaaan]

I'm not supposed to be thinking about writing right now, but I'm REALLY thinking of an Amphibia Swap AU that I might just write whenever I finish the fic I'm currently postponing.

Anne = Marcy

Sasha = Anne

Marcy = Sasha

Marbles :D

Once Marcy arrives in Amphibia, she's fascinated by EVERYTHING around her. (She does NOT have a journal to document anything though)

After a bit of wandering, and trying to figure out where Anne and Sasha are—to no avail, Marcy decides to be a hard-core camper!

Marcy tries to survive on her own just to be attacked by a variety of beasts, fails to start a fire (or burn down a part of the forest, this may or may not lead to her meeting Wally instead), or just failing to do anything in general. SHE LOSES HER HOODIE AT SOMEPOINT, ITS IMPORTANT. TRUST.

Marcy wandered the forest, thirsty, hungry, and worried about her girls. She meets Sprig in the forest, who's there for very PRIVATE reasons, and she convinces him to bring him to civilization. (She asks him a BUNCH of questions about him and his species)

Sprig brings Marcy to his house and sneaks her into the basement because she needs dire help. Hop Pop finds about this eventually, but lets her stay due to her injuries, and swears that as soon as she's better she has to go.

Spoiler, Marcy does not go, and they do not want her to go.

After a smudge of fighting, Hop Pop lets Marcy go out.

Marcy, like Anne, tries to get the respect of the townsfolk, when the Plantars are trying to sell stuff, but instead meets Maddie. "Yeah, no, I'll be at the stand if you need me!" [Sprig]

Marcy is curious about Maddie being a witch and tries to befriend Maddie, and Maddie is equally as curious as Marcy is. Marcy gets Maddie to teach her about spells! OooOooh~ (will probably be called "Mixtures with Maddie")

Marcy and Maddie have a lot of whacky witch shenanigans, and Marcy spends as much time with the Plantars as she does with Maddie.

Anna-Banana :3

Anne, like Sasha, is captured and imprisoned by Grime. She, GENUINELY, befriends the toads of the tower, NO MANIPULATION, but Grime thinks she's manipulating them.

UNLIKE Sasha, Anne does not have a major hold over the toads like she does. She's just a soldier. She influences Grime's decisions occasionally because of her way with words that she learned from Sasha, but she's just a foot-soldier overall. As long as she isn't dead, she can live with that.

She's taught how to sword fight of course, goes to Toad parties on the occasion, but sometimes she isn't in the mood for it. OR she sneaks out when nobody's looking and tries to search for her friends to no luck.

Grime often puts her in her place, like Sasha would.

Anne and Grime figure out that Marcy's in Wartwood, and Anne suggests a party, like a real party, no tricks, no nothing, but Grime doesn't see it that way and comes up with the plan by himself.

Marcy and Anne do not fight, unless Grime forces them too, or he threatens to kill Hop Pop if they don't fight. He does something to get them to fight, that's it.

Anne does not like that Grime is threatening an innocent man, but when Grime explains that Hop Pop is a revolutionary, and that Anne's idea was a perfect way to kill him, it made sense. She still doesn't support it though.

When that whole fiasco ends, Anne leaves with Marcy and the Plantars while Grime just... idk, sulks, or goes on a journey of self-reflection and runs off and meets Sasha on a mission? (It's not fair that Anne and Marcy get their amphibian companions and Sasha doesn't) "Never liked him that much anyway." [Anne]

Anne and Sprig have a great bond. They have their whacky adventures, Maddie and Marcy have their thing, and all together they have their moments. And at some point they all embark on a journey to Newtopia! (Maddie agrees to stay, because she has to help her dad)

Sashy >:3

Sasha sees through all of Andrias' attempts to trick her and lie to her. She tries to keep her distance, but he won't stop talking about that box. She lies to him and tells him she hasn't seen it.

Yunan decides to personally train her because she sees potential. Sasha climbs the military ranks quickly, earning Lieutenant in like a month. She does most of the managing of the army because Yunan is a solo act.

She captures a lot of bad guys, and has a bunch of scars on her skin and armor to prove it. She fought a bunch of wild animals when she had to leave the castle (with clearance from Andrias).

Andrias might strike a deal, because Sasha is too smart for her own good. Andrias ensures her that her friends are safe on day one, but offers her a world of her own to rule as long as she gets the box. Sasha may accept or reject, idk.

Sasha does not trust Andrias AT ALL. So when Anne and Marcy arrive, she's glad, but somewhat informs them of her suspicions. Once she learns that they have the box and that they can go home, Sasha may or may not keep it hidden from Andrias who would find out from The Core, or Sasha informs Andrias of the box himself. (With the others there ofc)

Andrias does research and tells them about the box and it's stones, yada yada, nerd talk, blah blah. <- Sasha

Go home until Andrias gives them coordinates -> Fly to temple 1 -> temple 2 -> temple 3 -> return to Newtopia because Sasha wants a free world to rule

Sasha learns she's been duped, and tries to fight for the box, blah blah.

I have no more ideas, but tell me what you think. 🙃

Also, GIVE me ideas. Thanksss.

Now, imma go watch the new episodes of Lego Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 👀

[sjsmith56]

Celebrations - Chapter 30, Lord Buchanan

Summary: Lord Buchanan returns to his human form and returns home. The celebration of the destruction of the asteroid arrives at Lord Buchanan’s castle. Quin finally kisses Isabella, Baroness Blackstone, and decides to request his father begin negotiations for her hand in marriage. Lady Buchanan reveals her pregnancy.

Length: 5.1 K

Characters: Lord and Lady Buchanan, Quin, Baroness Blackstone, Rhodes, Wallis.

Warnings: none

<<Chapter 29

🏮 🎊

With Livia in her arms Ileana walked throughout the castle thanking people personally for their help in preparing and defending the castle.  Holding a coin purse she gave every member of the staff a gold coin to remind them of their value.  Mary said she didn't have to do that but Ileana told her that it was in appreciation and as Lady Buchanan she could do just that.  She had just finished giving the stable and grounds staff their token of appreciation when a cry sounded from the courtyard.  Venturing out to see what calamity had befallen a tenant now she was happily surprised to see it was her husband, Rhodes and young Quin returning, along with a very happy Sky.

"My Lord," was all she could whisper before the tears started pouring out of her eyes.

Buchanan dismounted quickly and embraced her with tenderness in front of everyone.  He kissed her and Livia, too, then turned to everyone.

"I owe you all an apology and am in great debt to you for preserving the estate," he said loudly to everyone.  "It was my inner wolf that compelled me to ride out yesterday.  I could not resist its call.  This fine commander and young recruit took it upon themselves to search me out and restore me to human form.  Along the way here we heard from many that my wife Lady Buchanan and acting commander Wallis took control during my lapse and prepared the people well.  I will spend a lifetime making it up to you, I promise."

"Nothing to promise, M'Lord," said Wallis.  "You have always been a good and generous master.  The management of the estate is an effort that we all take part in daily.  We stepped it up a little because we had to.  It was our duty to you, Lord Buchanan."

Gallantly, Wallis bowed to Buchanan as did all the staff, including Rhodes, and even Quin.  With emotion, Buchanan took the compliment and seeing the coin purse in Ileana's hand asked where else a token was to be bestowed.  She pointed at Rhodes and Quin, adding the other soldiers who were still elsewhere, and he offered the two men a gold coin, promising to give the soldiers theirs soon.  They both accepted the token but made clear they rode out to find him because he was also their friend.  He invited Rhodes, Wallis and Quin into the castle for lunch as he had not eaten since the previous day.  Bruce joined them.  Cook was informed and outdid herself, earning another gold coin from Buchanan for always keeping him well fed.  During the meal Rhodes and Quin recounted their adventure.

"We arose in the morning and started tracking the white wolf's paw prints when our horses suddenly stopped," said Rhodes.  "Ahead of us on a rocky outcrop was the white wolf.  I started saying the counter spell and it ran out of earshot then returned after a few moments just watching and waiting.  Then Sky appeared and from behind began herding us forward.  It was Quin who determined that the white wolf was trying to lead us somewhere."

"It just occurred to me," said Quin.  "We have dog / coyote mixes in the Western Plains and they often are seen herding wild horses to safety before a storm.  Sky was never aggressive, his touch on their hind legs was just enough to move them forward.  The white wolf led us further into the wilderness until we came to a large cave."

"It was a cave I never knew about," said Rhodes, "and I have lived my entire life here.  We dismounted, led the horses inside and found a wondrous thing.  All of the animals of the forest were there, predator and prey, furred animals and winged birds, all of them crammed in tightly inside the space.  I will never see such a thing again."

Quin nodded in agreement while Buchanan said nothing, letting the two others describe the scene.   He was already on his second helping of food, so great was his hunger.  At first Ileana wanted to hear his story but he looked at her and just said the words "later, love."  Rhodes noticed the interaction and continued on.

"Suddenly, as one, every animal in there turned away from the opening," said Rhodes.  "Both the white wolf and Sky nudged us so we turned and closed our eyes.  A great blinding light flashed, bright even though our eyes were closed and I realized instantly it was an asteroid.  I thought it was hitting close by and prepared for the blast, but the white wolf barked after it had dimmed.  Both Quin and I looked out to the north seeing a great glow dance across the sky, followed minutes later by trails of flames that dissipated before they reached the ground.  All the animals came out then and returned to their homes, except the wolves.  They congregated around the white wolf and Sky and began to howl in celebration.  It was exhilarating and frightening at the same time."

"Then they suddenly stopped and looked to the white wolf who howled some sort of command at them," said Quin.  "They all left, leaving with their packs back to their lands, leaving only the white wolf and Sky.  Commander Rhodes said the counter spell and Lord Buchanan appeared with nothing on.  We advised him that his clothing was in the saddle bags and he recounted his adventure to us as he dressed.  I have never seen such a thing."

"You mustn't tell anyone the words either," said Buchanan, finally speaking out loud.  "Only a few have seen my transformation to or from my wolf although many have heard stories of it.  I fly the banner of the white wolf to reinforce that I have the magic within me."

"Nay, I would never betray that trust," said Quin.  "I feel privileged that I witnessed it.  Although I am puzzled about one thing.  Why did you not wish to be transformed when you first found us?"

"Because as the white wolf he is the alpha male of all packs," said Bruce, "aren't you?  Sky accepts your dominance in human form but to keep the order with the others you had to be the wolf."

Buchanan smiled.  "I believe you are right," he said.  "Sky somehow told me to stay in wolf form until the packs had dispersed.  I just wanted to get you two into the cave before the calamity.  Ileana and I connected in a dream she was having and she told me you two were in the forest searching for me.  It was quite a run for me and Sky to get to you in time.  But the missile worked well, didn't it?"

"It did," replied Bruce.  "The new numbers from the super computer made all the difference.  Quin, when you return....  Sorry, I forgot."

"Only Wallis is in the dark," said Rhodes.  "I deduced it in the forest."

Wallis looked at them confused as Buchanan looked to Quin.  "I can't stop people from guessing it on their own," he said.  "You have to trust that some people will keep your secret and others won't.  I think Wallis is one of the former."

"I am the heir to the throne of the Kingdom of the Western Plains," said Quin to Wallis.  "Lord Buchanan has given me the opportunity to become a better man after I stole Magnus and injured him in the process.  Instead of the noose I agreed to live as a common man for this year and learn from a man that has already impressed me with his honour.  I want no special treatment as I pledge to do my duties in the garrison and learn how to be a better man."

Wallis considered the boy's words and looked at him steadily.  "It is my duty as deputy commander to make all the men under my command better men," he said.  "If Lord Buchanan saw something in you to keep you from the noose then who am I to question his judgement?"

With that endorsement Quin was assured that there were several people he could trust and rely on in the year to come.  After finishing the meal he returned to the garrison with none there knowing his true heritage.

He proved to be a quick learner in the following weeks, friendly to all and always offering his help to fellow soldiers in the garrison.  Knowing that his presence in the garrison was also to provide an opportunity to learn about running a business none were jealous that he was always on the rounds with Buchanan, and either Rhodes or Wallis.   Any teasing or comments were of the good natured kind.  Rhodes and Wallis still kept observant of any troubling behaviours around him but found Quin well able to handle himself.

Five weeks after Quin's arrival the travelling celebration made its final stop at Buchanan's estate.  The King and Queen, as well as Prince Joseph, were expected to stay at the castle, as well as Lord and Lady Falcon, Baroness Romanoff and Silas Brenson, Lord and Lady Stark, and finally Baroness Blackstone, accompanied by her garrison commander Coulson.  On the morning of their expected arrival Ileana rose early to see to the room assignments, knowing that Mary had already handled it but feeling unable to stay in bed any longer.  No sooner had she risen than the desire to vomit came over her and she ran to her bathing room, making it to the privy just in time.  She rose to see Buchanan standing in the doorway watching her with a smile.

"Five weeks since our reunion," he said softly, "and your monthly bleed is late.  I believe you are with child."

"Feels like it," she said with a wan smile.  "As soon as I stood up I felt the need.  I wish it had revealed itself next week after the celebrations but I'm happy just the same."

He came forward quickly and held Ileana in his arms until Beth arrived then he stepped back and told her to pay his wife extra attention before leaving for his own morning ablutions.  Beth looked puzzled so Ileana told her what had just transpired.  Her eyes sparkled as she congratulated her mistress on the happy event.  Fortunately for Ileana that was the only sign of the pregnancy that morning.  Although she was nervous about breakfast, word must have somehow reached Cook as her plate had only those foods that wouldn't trigger a reaction to smell or texture.  Less than an hour after breakfast their first visitor arrived, Baroness Blackstone.

"I couldn't wait," said the young woman, apologetically, still on her horse.  "Even though it's been only a few days since you were at my castle I just wanted to be here as soon as it was decently possible."

She looked around as if trying to see someone but she didn't see who she was searching for as Coulson helped her off her horse.  Buchanan bowed to her while she and Ileana gave each other a quick hug, having become good friends.  Ileana hooked her arm into Isabella's and they walked to the castle entrance, while Coulson took their horses to the stables, after the servants had removed her trunks from the pack horse.

"He is on patrol this morning," said Ileana in a low voice, "so he can be free from mid-afternoon on."

"I'm sure I don't know who you mean," replied Isabella, breezily then spoke excitedly.  "Did you see we danced at my castle?  For a common man he is quite light footed.  It was a surprise as even some of the nobles were terrible dancers, Lord Buchanan excluded."

"I believe Quin had high born friends who made sure he fit in at their celebrations," said Ileana.  "How goes your training?  I believe you were to begin pike work this week?"

"Hard," admitted Isabella.  "Baroness Romanoff is an exacting teacher."

"I remember," said Ileana.  "Perhaps Lady Falcon can be your guide while you are here.  I found her to be an excellent teacher of the fighting arts.  With Queen Peg also we can have a master class in warrior women and show some of these men a thing or two."

Both women laughed as Ileana escorted the young woman to her quarters while two servants carried her trunks in.  By late afternoon all the guests had arrived and the outdoor activities had been set up with a space for dancing, a festival of craftspeople, games of chance, as well as several taverns, along with walking acrobats and entertainers strolling throughout.  It was a festive atmosphere that took on magical qualities after the sun went down as the coloured lanterns were lit and the dancing began. 

It was a custom throughout the land that anyone could ask anyone else to dance, male or female didn't matter.  For some young women and men it was an opportunity to find out if the object of their affections was inclined to return them.  For those who preferred their own sex it was an opportunity to dance openly without fear of ridicule.  For Quin Torres it was an opportunity to dance with Isabella Pierce, Baroness Blackstone.  Since the day he first saw her he had often thought of her.  Until the previous week's celebration he had glimpsed her on the odd occasion when Lord Buchanan's path crossed with hers.  She had always been polite in speaking with him but it was at the dance the previous week that he realized he felt more than friendship with her.  There had been many who danced with her, including tenant farmers, their sons, castle staff, members of her garrison, and with all of them she had danced with a reserved attitude to her partner.  But when he  danced with her and didn't take his eyes off of her during their encounter she began meeting his bold attitude with her own, holding his gaze often.  On the day after, when he had to take his leave to return to duties she came out to say goodbye to Lord and Lady Buchanan, then nodded to Quin and watched as they rode away.  He knew she watched because he looked back at her and saw her hold his gaze again.

Buchanan had noticed as well but held his voice until they were out of sight.  "So, you do like her," he said casually.  "What are your intentions?  I am her senior advisor, after all."

Quin smirked at first then became serious.  "Honourable, sir, my intentions are honourable," he replied.  "I made the decision to remain celibate until my wedding night to a woman of my choosing.  I plan to write my father to begin negotiations to make her my bride.  Whether I love her is something I still have to determine but I like her and I think I am worthy to be her husband."

"Don't you think you should fall in love first?" asked Ileana.  "It's certainly how I have counselled her.  She may not want to marry an unknown prince with a bad reputation but she may want to marry a soldier who has stirred her heart."

"And when she finds out the truth," pointed out Quin, "that I am that prince known to have a bad reputation?  You don't think she will refuse me?"

"Not if she loves the man she knows," said Buchanan.  "You have already changed Quin.  Knowing and accepting your responsibilities as a soldier means you have the capability to know and accept the responsibilities of being king.  Be the man she needs then she may follow you into the life you accept.  As King you have the power to transform your kingdom but it helps to have a good queen by your side to help you.  Steven has found that with Peg, and Isabella is cut from the same cloth as our queen."

In the days since their conversation on the road Quin had thought often of whether to open negotiations before or after declaring his love of Isabella but the more he thought about it the more he knew that she deserved to know that he at least loved her as a man first above all else.  If she accepted him as a low born man then perhaps she would accept him as a high born man also.  Now, while they were at the celebration he approached her, and requested a dance.  Her face was warm from the extensive dancing she had already experienced, causing him to ask if she needed a drink first.

"Yes, would you please bring me one while I step into the garden for a quiet moment?" she asked, then turned towards the formal garden. 

He requested a refreshing drink for her and walked into the quiet of the space where other couples were also walking, taking the opportunity for quiet conversation.  He looked for her then heard his name in a loud whisper.  She was inside a small bower made of a climbing vine with beautiful flowers.  Silently he handed her the drink, watching as she sipped it.

"Thank you, this is refreshing," she said.

"You're welcome, Baroness," he replied.  "You have danced much tonight."

"Lady Buchanan is feeling a little under the weather so I have assumed her role for tonight," she said, with a smile.  "I don't mind.  Her malady will be cured in almost eight months."

Quin looked puzzled then smiled.  "Of course, she carries a child," he said.  "They haven't said anything yet.  How do you know?"

"We're friends," she replied.  "Their marriage is a great love match.  Many women wanted to bed Lord Buchanan in the hopes of catching his favour.  My father even tried to send some of his mistresses to spy on him but he remained celibate after the death of his first wife in childbirth.  Ileana was a modern woman who landed in his estate and was set upon by two villains who wished their way with her.  He fell in love with her almost instantly."

"Do you believe in instant love?" he asked. 

"I didn't," she admitted.  "Now, I'm willing to entertain the idea."

Quin smiled and found his attention focussed on one of the flowers, plucking it from the vine and handing it to her.  She took it and lifted it to her nose then dropped it but it landed on her dress just above her bosom.  Looking her in the eyes Quin plucked it from her dress and this time placed it in her hair.   When his eyes went to her face she looked directly at him and he softly kissed her on the lips. 

"I'm sorry, that was forward of me," he said in a low voice, while stepping back a bit.

"I didn't mind," she whispered.  "It was nice."

He leaned forward again and placed his hands on her upper arms drawing her close and this time his kiss was firmer, yet still gentle.  When he finished he placed his forehead on hers.

"Isabella," he whispered and this time she kissed him, embracing him fully.

"Baroness?" said a voice loudly. 

Quin stepped back into the shadows while Isabella stepped forward to the entrance of the bower.  "Yes, Coulson, what is it?" she asked.

"Lady Buchanan has taken to bed early and Lord Buchanan requests your assistance," he said, trying to see who else was in the bower.

"Certainly," she said briskly, as she stepped past him.

Quin waited a few moments and stepped out directly into Coulson.  "Recruit Torres, I believe," said Coulson, with a stern look.  "Although Baroness Blackstone has the luxury of choice I believe you don't have the luxury of time, being expected back in your home in 11 months.  She, alas, has to stay here as a baroness."

Quin grinned slightly but kept his words polite.  "You are correct Commander that I must return in 11 months," he replied.  "But she doesn't have to stay a baroness.  Someday she could be a queen."

Then he left the Commander standing there wondering what that meant.  Quin never did get his dance with her but he did watch her and she knew he was watching.  When his curfew time approached he bade Lord Buchanan goodnight and started the walk back to the garrison in the dark.  He went a short distance before a boy called him by name.

"Yes," he turned to the boy in the darkness.  "I am Quin Torres."

"I was bidden to give you this," said the boy, thrusting something in his hand and running back to the festival.  It wasn't until he was inside his small room in the garrison and had lit a candle that he saw what it was, a monogrammed handkerchief with the initials IRP, Isabella Rose Pierce.  He smelled it, detecting the essence of roses in it. 

"I will give you a rose garden in the desert for a wedding present," he said softly.  "My Isabella."

He placed it under his pillow for that night but on the morrow vowed he would place it next to his heart, carrying it there always.  After his duties ended he would write his father to begin the negotiations for him to marry Isabella, Baroness Blackstone.  As he lay in the dark with his eyes open he imagined what a marriage based on love could be like, then realizing he had seen it already between Lord and Lady Buchanan.  When sleep came it was quick and complete.

In the morning, Quin Torres reported to Cook, in the kitchen.  He was on kitchen duty that day.  It would be his duty to set up and serve breakfast to the garrison, along with another two recruits, Edward Forest and Liam Green.  As they waited for Cook the three young men set up the table just outside the kitchen door and stacked the metal plates and cutlery. 

"I saw you go into the garden with Baroness Blackstone last night Quin," said Liam.  "You aim high."

Quin smiled but said nothing.  "She came out by herself soon after," teased Edward.  "She can't have been impressed."

Still Quin said nothing until he turned to start bringing the food out.  "You're talking about a woman of quality as if she were a barmaid," said Quin.  "Men should always aim high for it makes them better men."

Edward and Liam both rolled their eyes but ceased their teasing as Cook was ready for them.

"Eggs, bacon, sausage, fried potato," she pointed out.  "Toasted bread, coffee and tea.  You work out who serves what.  Remember, after the garrison is served you can have as much of what is left as you want before you serve the remainder to the poor and wash up.  Go on lads."

All three recruits received teasing from the garrison about their appearance at the festival the evening before.  Comments were made about their choice of clothing, the games they played and the women or men they danced with.  Coulson was present when someone commented about Quin not getting his dance with the Baroness.  He tensed when he saw Quin's face harden for a moment but relaxed when the young man just looked at the soldier and served his food with a pointed comment.

"The Baroness needed a moment to collect herself and I was happy to oblige her.  No doubt she will remember that kindness better than the man who ripped her dress by stepping on it."

The teasing turned to the man who had committed the offence of ripping her dress and Quin resumed serving the potatoes.  Liam and Edward patted him on the back after that retort, recognizing it for a successful deflection of an insult.  Even Coulson had to admit the boy took the slight well.  When the last man had been served all three recruits took their fill and sat out in the morning sun, eating the hearty breakfast.  While they ate a line up of the poor had formed, each with their own bowl.  Quickly looking at the lineup and what was left at the table Quin ran into the kitchen.

"Cook, I believe we served too much to the garrison as there isn't enough for the poor who are out there," he said.  "Is there something else we can offer them? Baked goods, or some of the oatmeal you always have on the stove?  I don't want to send any of them away with nothing."

Cook sighed, as she often did to express a distressing thought, then patted Quin on the cheek.  "I have just the thing, young man," she said.  "You'll have to help me and carry them out.  I made up currant scones for the festival but I can get my apprentices to make up more.  I have some pieces of cheese they can have as well.  Come lad."

She took him into the larder, impressing him with the amount of food she kept there.  She pulled an empty tray out and began loading it with the currant scones, then went into the cheese larder where there were several that were smaller in size.

"I usually let those dry out a bit then shred them to sprinkle over stews and the like," she said.  "Best I give them to the poor now then I have space to get some new cheese in."

As he took the tray outside to add to the leftovers being offered to the poor she smiled.  There had been rumours about the boy ever since he arrived with Lord Buchanan as his foster from his trip across the ocean.  Some of the rumours said he was a love child of the master but Quin's dark features were different than Buchanan's.  There had also been talk that he was a runaway, an apprentice running from a cruel master.  She didn't care for she saw something in him that Buchanan had, empathy and concern for those lesser than himself.  Since Buchanan was one of the best of men, she had no doubt the boy was here to learn to be a better man than he could be in his home.  That was as good a reason as any to like the boy.

Outside the tray of extra food was just the thing and no one left without some food.  The recruits piled the dirty plates on the empty trays and brought them inside to the washing room where Cook had already boiled hot water for them to use.  Edward scraped the leftover food into a bucket for the dogs then stacked the plates near the first sink.  Quin poured a pot of hot water into the first sink then ran the cold water pump until the temperature was perfect for washing.  A bar of soap was there and he shaved off enough to make suds then began washing the dirty plates and handing them off to Liam who rinsed them in a sink full of warm water then placed them on a rack to dry.  Edward had finished scraping the dirty plates and poured the contents of the bucket into several dishes placed near the outside doorway for the castle dogs to eat.  The tame wolf Sky always had first choice and he watched with fascination as the beast chose his bowl first then allowed the other dogs to eat after him.  After another hour of cleaning and stacking the dishes on their shelves the three lad's duties for the day were finished, although Quin was to go on rounds soon with Buchanan. 

As he ran to the garrison to get changed into riding gear he heard the sounds of combat but the voices behind it were women and he stopped to watch.  With a start he realized he was standing next to King Steven and the Lords Buchanan, Stark, Falcon and the consort of Baroness Romanoff, Silas Brenson.  They were watching intently as their wives demonstrated their combat skills.  All were in leather breeches with their shins padded, and wore padded leather jackets and helmets.  The sixth woman of the group was Isabella and he watched with fascination as she squared off against the Queen.  Both women had a long staff and were expertly fighting each other, not holding back as they hit, slashed and stabbed with it.  Although he had seen Lady Buchanan training, he had never seen two women squaring off as it was not permitted for them to learn the fighting arts in his kingdom.  The battle lasted well over 10 minutes with many athletic moves made by both women but the Queen emerged the victor when she knocked Isabella's staff out of her hand forcing the younger woman to yield.  The next pairing were Lady Stark and Lady Buchanan who engaged with wooden swords.  Of similar skill they both put on an engaging display of swordplay until Lady Buchanan had to stop and vomit in a bucket.

"Well, you all know now," she said with a grim smile to the assembled soldiers.  "I carry my second child.  I'm sorry Piper but I don't think I can carry on.  I just want to hurl.  I yield."

"I've felt like that after a night at the tavern," yelled one of the garrison soldiers, to some laughter. 

Lady Stark put her arm around Lady Buchanan and the two women went to stand with their husbands.  Then the two sisters, Lady Falcon and Baroness Romanoff came forward and Quin could see by the anticipation on the faces of the assembled soldiers that this was the main event, as both were expert soldiers capable of fighting any man there.  Their quickness and skill amazed him.  Neither held back and although they switched between wooden staff and sword their hits could be felt by every man there.  Just as he thought the fight would go on forever both women stopped and hugged each other, accepting a draw between them once again.  He turned to go to the garrison and change.

"Take your time Quin," said Buchanan seeing him there.  "It is a group ride this morning with the wives and Baroness Blackstone.  They will need time to prepare."

"I am permitted to ride with the King?" he asked.

"Of course," said Buchanan.  "He asked for you specifically to join us.  Be back here at the top of the hour."

Quin nodded and raced to his small room, washing and dressing quickly.  Then he went to the stable, took his horse out and saddled him before leading him out into the courtyard.  He was early but he didn't mind.  Today he would be riding with Isabella.

Chapter 31>>

Series Masterlist

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[fantomcomics]

What’s Out This Week? 11/9

MARIAH CAREY HAS DEFROSTED. WE REPEAT, MARIAH CAREY HAS DEFROSTED. MAY GOD HELP US ALL. 

Two Graves #1 -  Genevieve Valentine, Ming Doyle, & Annie Wu 

Emilia and the man with the veil of smoke have set out for the ocean in a stolen truck. There's a bloody handprint on his neck. She's beginning to worry it's hers. Death and the Maiden go on a road trip. Nobody gets out alive.

Killchella #1 -  Mario Candelaria & Serg Acuna

A group of friends drive up from Los Angeles to attend an ultra-trendy music festival in the Coachella Valley desert. They soon face a bloody night of terror when a reclusive pop star making her big return after five years recruits her most fanatical devotees to assist in a massive human sacrifice ritual.

Mr. Easta #1 -  Kit Wallis

The gloriously demented mind of Kit Wallis brings the galactic adventures of the third best assassin in the universe to Scout Comics! Incredible, kinetically charged artwork blasts the blood, mayhem and quirky humor directly through your brain like a high-caliber bullet. In this issue, it's Elvis night at an interstellar backwater bar, but with all due respect to the King, that doesn't stop Mr. Easta. With the help of Frank, his teleportation parasite, who can also transform into any handheld weapon imaginable, it's business as usual.

It’s Lonely At The Centre Of The Earth GN -  Zoe Thorogood

Cartoonist ZOE THOROGOOD records six months of her own life as it falls apart in a desperate attempt to put it back together again in the only way she knows how. IT'S LONELY AT THE CENTRE OF THE EARTH is an intimate metanarrative that looks into the life of a selfish artist who must create for her own survival.

A poignant, slice-of-life-style story perfect for fans of Adrian Tomine's The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Cartoonist.

Gospel #1 (of 5) - Will Morris & Ver

When opportunity refuses to knock for restless hero Matilde, the devil comes knocking instead. Thrust into action by the hellish arrival, Matilde and storyteller Pitt will quest for answers - answers that threaten to tear them apart and trigger the toughest question of all: "Who am I?" Inspired by the work of Hayao Miyazaki and set in the chaos of King Henry VIII's reign, GOSPEL is a thrilling fantasy adventure that questions the truth behind the stories we tell.

Heavenly Demon Reborn! GN Vol 1 -  O'Emperor & Gom-Guk

In an ancient world where martial artists reign supreme, Unseong can only watch as his master is brutally beaten to death after a false accusation of practicing forbidden demonic arts. Even after a valiant fight, he fails to kill those responsible and faces his own end. But fate has other plans... Instead of taking his last breath, he awakens as a child, training to be an elite soldier of a demonic sect. Now Unseong must embrace the demonic arts and harness power in his ultimate quest for revenge.

Go! Go! Loser Ranger! GN Vol 1 -  Negi Haruba

Attention kaiju and sentai fans! From the creator of The Quintessential Quintuplets comes a new "anti-ranger" action-comedy that'll make you root for the alien invaders! Thirteen years ago, an evil army of mysterious alien monsters invaded the Earth, but the great protectors of mankind-the Divine Dragon Rangers-show up to stop them! To this day, the fate of the Earth hangs in the balance as the fierce struggle continues to unfold! ...Or does it? In truth, the evil aliens were subjugated within the first year, and they've now become nothing more than clowns forced to act out their continuous defeat every week for the entertainment of the masses. They're not real villains, being forced to crank out a monster a week for the Rangers to crush. But one of the aliens has had enough. Something has to change! He'll rebel against the strongest might of the Dragon Rangers and destroy them all from the inside!

Traveling To Mars #1 -  Mark Russell & Roberto Meli

Traveling to Mars tells the story of former pet store manager Roy Livingston, the first human to ever set foot on Mars. Roy was chosen for this unlikely mission for one simple reason: he is terminally ill and therefore has no expectation of returning. Roy is joined on his mission to Mars by Leopold and Albert, two Mars rovers equipped with artificial intelligence, who look upon the dying pet store manager as a sort of god. Against the backdrop of not only his waning days but those of human civilization as well, Roy has ample time to think about where things went wrong for both of them and what it means to be a dying god.

Specs #1 (of 4) -  David M. Booher, Chris Shehan & Skylar Patridge

In this mysterious new series from writer David M. Booher (Canto, All-New Firefly) and artist Chris Shehan (House of Slaughter), what happens when a couple of misfit teens mail-order a pair of X-ray glasses, and realize they've received much more than they bargained for? But all Kenny and Ted want is to not feel like outcasts in their small Ohio town. Their world is turned upside down when the Magic Specs they receive unlock a world of possibilities. Their wishes start out innocent enough, but when they wish that their bully would disappear... things take a cursed turn, with far darker consequences than they thought possible...

Avante Guard Yumeko GN -  Shuzo Oshimi

From Shuzo Oshimi, the creator of Blood on the Tracks, The Flowers of Evil, and Happiness. I just want to see it! High schooler Yumeko is your ordinary high school girl except she's obsessed with seeing the male body part in real life. Determined, Yumeko decides to join the art club at school.

All Your Racial Problems Will Soon End HC -  Dr. Charles Johnson

Before Charles Johnson found fame as a novelist and won the National Book Award for Middle Passage in 1991, he was a cartoonist, and a very good one. Taught via mail correspondence course by the comics editor Lawrence Lariar, mentored by the New Yorker cartoonist Charles Barsotti, and inspired by the call of poet Amiri Baraka to celebrate and depict Black life in America, Johnson crafted some of the fiercest and funniest cartoons of the twentieth century. This collection brings together work from across his career: college newspaper gags, selections from his books Black Humor and Half-Past Nation Time, his unpublished manuscript Lumps in the Melting Pot, and uncollected pieces.

Billionaire Island: Cult Of Dogs #1 (of 6) -  Mark Russell & Steve Pugh

The long-awaited return of the "series that's simultaneously infuriating and hysterically funny in its indictment of not just the 1%, but of the people-and the economic system-that enable them" (Comics Beat). The year is 2046, two years after Billionaire Island fell-taking the world's economy with it. Only one man-er, dog-can save us now. But where is Business Dog?

The Knight & The Lady Of Play One-Shot -  Jonathan Luna

JONATHAN LUNA (THE PHALANX, 20XX: TRANSPORT) returns with another one-shot, illustrated in graphite! After a war with demons, knight Signore Vincenzo is traveling home to his wife in Italy. In a swamp, he comes across a mysteriously hypnotic woman, Motta, who tempts him to stay with her.  

Tokyo Aliens GN Vol 1 -  Naoe

This thrilling sci-fi fantasy series welcomes you to Japan, a top ten destination for extraterrestrials looking for refuge, relaxation, a good time, or just to raise a little hell! Shiny new high school first-year Akira is as ordinary as they come. He's awkward, has terrible grades, and loves manga. In fact, the only thing that really sets him apart from his peers is his staunch determination to follow in his late father's footsteps as a police officer. But fate has its own plans for Akira. After witnessing a ferocious battle unfold between two strangers with unusual powers on the train-one of whom looks a lot like the tall, dark, and handsome kid in his grade-he finds himself kidnapped...by none other than an alien!

Lord Of The Jungle #1 -  Dan Jurgens, Benito Gallego & Gary Frank

At long last, the Lord of the Jungle returns to comics! One of the most famous and recognizable characters in the history of fiction is back, starting with an adventure that returns us to the days before his birth, as well as a time later in life, when a past wrong must be made right, no matter what manner of beast or obstacle stands in Tarzan's way. From acclaimed writer Dan Jurgens (Superman, Spider-Man, Thor, Booster Gold, Justice League and so many more) comes a tale that wraps the familiar with something brand new. With epic art by Tarzan newspaper artist Benito Gallego, this is sure to be a book that delivers for Tarzan fans both old and new!

Lastman Book 1 -  Balak, Michael Sanlaville, & Bastien Vives

Adrian Velba has trained all year to fight in the Valley of the Kings' legendary tournament. However, despite his ambition, he has no chance of winning. Not only is his partner unable to compete, but at 12 years old, Adrian is the longest of longshots. That is, until a mysterious, powerful stranger enters town, offering to join forces with Adrian. But who is Richard Aldana? And why in a world of magic does he rely solely on his fists?

[keyinsideafreesia10]

My ver of Wally

For my au called the misadventures of Finley my version of Wally acts and has more cat features for example his hair frizzes up when angry/scared

Some stuff with my ver of Wally is that when stressed he stress eats not the normal way ither due to him eating from his eyes he doesn't have any control over them when angry or stressed out causing him to eat inedible stuff this also cause Wally to feel ill or have stomach aches he owns a sleeping mask but he doesn't use them for sleeping he usually where's it during the time he's stressed so he doesn't axadently eat something (or someone in that matter) Wich begs the question on why wally in general needs to eat or even eats with his eyes in the first place sense the actual creator of Wally said that the puppets don't eat they just have favorite foods to make 🤔 so Wally general interests me more with how he works

Other information is that he secretly has a cat tail he doesn't hide it because he's embarrassed but actually because it overloads his stimulation when people pull on it especially kids when he and his friends have meet n greats with other "neighbors" so he usually hides it

More information is that he and his friends live in another dimension from earth some people behind the show figured out how to open the puppet world to the human world however it's a combo mix of the Truman show and nope also with mix of adventure time and over the garden wall adventualy the government caught the people with a potentially dangerous weapon (the portal to the puppet world) and confiscating not just to show but the entire franchise making sure that the franchise of welcome home as a whole is unknown and unseen by the public eye of humanity that is until the anonymous found it and somehow gathered more information then the government did causing them to be in the government watch list

[oli-draw]

Marge Bloddis

[anonymouslymadebydesign]

Thinking about making a Welcome Home OC because I'm absolutely enamored with WH. Nothing short of a shameless self-insert, their name would be Percy Poem (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧

His pronouns are he / him and they / them but he’s fine with either or :D

He’d be a librarian who owns a little library at the edge of the town close to the woods !

Originally they had one of those old Volkswagen campervans, ya know the kind, except instead of the rows of seats it usually has, it's been gutted out and renovated. In place are custom shelves they made themselves with little ropes on each level to keep them from flying about while they drive. In the center is a makeshift bed, a pillow and blanket, they've laid down to rest for the night wherever they stop for the night 7

He would travel the country in search of all new kinds of books to read! Fiction, non-fiction, cookbooks, autobiographies, gardening, journals, you name it they've got it. After awhile though they settle down in The Neighborhood and permanently park the VW campervan out behind the library. Sometimes, he still goes out and sleeps amongst his old books from their last adventure.

Their role theyd play in the show, when it aired, would be teaching kids about libraries! How to get their own library card, how to check out books, how to find specific books, teaching them the Dewey Decimal System, and making occasional appearances when other characters stop by for help or to look for a book that might aid in whatever the topic is for certain episodes! I like to think they'd also show kids that libraries are a great place to study for all kinds of things, not just school, but if you ever wanna learn something new or learn more about an interesting topic, you can find it at your local library!

Say Sally wants to put on a play but she needs more info on what kind of play she wants to showcase. Percy would ask "Well, is it comedy? a tragedy? drama?" and they would direct Sally to the section she needs (◡‿◡✿) ☀️

Wally wants to read / learn more about a certain art style? Say no more my fuzzy friend, Percy Poem will show you the way! 🍎 The Librarians got books on realism, abstract, watercolor, surrealism, pointillism, every style under the sun is available in his endless library >w•

Now, Welcome Home IS a Horror arg, so I was thinking of how I would play into that aspect as the towns librarian. I remember an old game I played as a kid that had a cute local library but you could only access a certain part to progress to story. There was a section of the library that was roped off, preventing you from straying further into the library. I know this was just a wall to make it LOOK like the library was bigger than it was but it got me thinking.

What if Percy Poems library had certain sections roped off? Beyond the ropes you could see rows and rows of shelves with seemingly endless books, a hazy blue light barely illuminating the path making it seem like it went on forever (it does). The only person allowed past these velvet ropes is Percy themself, and the bookworms he keeps as assistants. Neighbors and visitors are strictly forbidden from venturing further in and if there's a book they need back there he will either retrieve it himself OR have a bookworm get it.

My thought process was, welcome home will also deal with sentience (at least in the future) and I wanted to draw, or maybe even write, a scene between Percy and Wally of Wally forcing Percy to get people lost in the librarians endless corridors until they’ve “learnt their lesson”.

The only person who can pinpoint a persons location is Percy (seeing as he’s the librarian and caretaker) and so when Wally deems time is up he’ll ask Percy where they are and go fetch them himself.

Percy is intimidated by Wally so he keeps his mouth shut and eyes down. I mean, hes such a swell guy, and the town LOVES him.

It’s only at night that he gets like this…

[ao3feed-brucewayne]

A Better Tomorrow (Starts Today)

by Lauquismi05 Sent to a brand new world with memories shrouded in mist, Midoriya Izuku stands on the edge of greatness. Few people wield superpowers and the scared faces of the population burn in the back of his mind. Criminals run wild, wishing for their success and counting the short seconds they have to get away with their scores. The young boy senses the power trembling beneath his surface, he knows he has to do something, so he shall follow the pull of his heart that makes his body move on its own and jump to the fray, and maybe get a few friends on this new path. Two questions arise when his deeds come to light: is he ready for a World of Crisis? Is the World of Crisis ready for him? Words: 3663, Chapters: 1/?, Language: English Fandoms: DCU (Comics), DCU, 僕のヒーローアカデミア | Boku no Hero Academia | My Hero Academia (Anime & Manga) Rating: Mature Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Categories: Multi Characters: Midoriya Izuku, Clark Kent, Bruce Wayne, Barbara Gordon, Lois Lane, Victoria Vale, Vicki Vale, Barry Allen, Wally West, Dick Grayson, Batfamily Members (DCU), Flashfamily Members (DCU), Diana, Wonder Woman - Character, Superfamily Members (DCU), Tanathos Relationships: Clark Kent & Lois Lane, Tim Drake & Dick Grayson & Jason Todd & Bruce Wayne & Damian Wayne, Selina Kyle/Bruce Wayne, Clark Kent/Lois Lane, Midoriya Izuku/??? Additional Tags: Action/Adventure, Adventure & Romance, Parallel Universes, Memory Loss, Midoriya Izuku Has a Quirk, Midoriya Izuku Has One for All Quirk, One For All Quirk Haunted by Past One For All Users' Ghosts (My Hero Academia), Lost in another universe, stuck in another universe via https://ift.tt/IEUVbiP

[whitepolaris]

Wally of Wallowa Lake

Located just south of Joseph, Wallowa Lake is about five miles long and a mile wide. It's about 283 feet deep. Essentially a tear in the earth from the last ice age, the lake and the surrounding wilderness inspire the imagination and possibly conceal some undiscovered secrets of nature.

In one such legend, Nez Perce and Blackfeet Indians, who inhabited opposite shores of Wallowa Lake, negotiated peace after years of war. As part of their conciliation, Tlescaoe, son of the Blackfeet chief, and Wahluna, daughter of the Nez Perce chief, was married. After their wedding ceremony, the newlyweds went canoeing on the lake, taking in an especially impressive sunset. Without warning, a great serpent lunged at them under water, capsizing their canoe and killing them. The Blackfeet worried that, by ending hostilities between their people, the chiefs defied their warriors' preordained destiny and angered the Great Spirit. The giant serpent may have simply acted as an emissary of punishment.

Another legend states that Wally originally lived high up in the mountains surrounding the lake. An Indian brave who was exploring startled it and caused it to flee. The adventurous young man chased it over the mountains and, eventually, the serpent came to Wallowa Lake and dove in, quickly followed by his pursuer. After a few moments, the brave gave up, turned around, and began swimming to shore. As his friends approached, they saw him jerk and scream as he was pulled under.

Stories like these have caused generations of Native Americans to approach Wallowa Lake with caution. Though the newlyweds and the Indian grave are said to never have been seen again, the monster has since been spotted form time to time.

In 1885, shortly after settlers began using the lake for recreation, the first known sighting of the monster by a white man was reported in a local newspaper. A prospector was roughly halfway across the lake when he saw a ten-foot-long neck with a flat, cowlike head rise out of the water fifty yards to his right. It called out in a few low bellows, submerged, and soon reappeared to his left. This time, the serpent's entire body rose to the surface. The prospector estimated it to be about one hundred feet long. It glided along the water surface for a few hundred yards before submerging again.

In 1932, a couple in a boat saw what they described as a "monster fish" about three hundred feet from the west shore.

Irene Wiggins, who owned a lakeside lodge, claimed to have seen the monster several times, from 1945 onward. She may have been among the first to refer to the creature as Wally. Her description of Wally was consistent with previous sightings.

In 1950, three witnesses saw two sleekly shaped creatures with heads resembling those of buffalo. The creatures were approximately sixteen and eight feet long. Previous descriptions of a larger lake monster therefore suggest that these two were youngers. It follows, then, that what is commonly thought of as a single animal may instead be a group of some sort.

In his book Oregon's Ghost and Monsters, author Mike Helm claims that his father once saw Wally while fishing. He writes that, based on his father's description, he's "always pictured it as a huge snake with a head like a Chinese dragon, a regular medieval sea serpent, rippling across the surface of the lake."

He also touches on other lands of Wallowa Lake, such as speculation that it's connected to the Great Lakes by a vast underground river. (As Helm heard it, some time ago the body of a man who drowned in Wallowa Lake was supposedly recovered in Lake Erie).

This concept raises another interesting question: Could Wally be the same creature as, or a relative of, South Bay Bessie, the Lake Erie Monster?

[alinalioness]

Adventure under water 4 Chapter:Dating a mermaid.

The night went well, although there was trouble. Ariel and Flounder look up, hoping that someone will take the jewelry box.

Ariel:Let's see what's on land.

She and Flounder climbed up and looked at what was happening, hiding behind a stone. Surprisingly, Fiona comes out of the house in a diving suit and notices the box.

Fiona:From where? (She took the box, opened it and was surprised) Bracelets. (She took one of them) But to whom?

Later.

She put a blue shell bracelet on her arm and watched him while she sat on the shore. Ariel and Flounder watched this, hoping that she would touch it.

Flounder:What if it doesn't work?

Ariel:Quietly.

Suddenly Fiona decided to touch the shell, the shell began to shine and burst into flames. She was horrified to discover that there was a fish tail instead of her legs, but she calmed down.

Fiona:What am I doing now?.. A mermaid?

She touched the water and entered the sea. Ariel and Flounder were glad it worked.

Ariel:It worked.

Fiona was swimming with a smile, but noticed in the distance Haoyu, who was approaching the beach. She hid behind the rocks.

Fiona:I don't want him to worry about me. And how to get it back? (She touched a shell and instead of a tail there were her legs) I'm human again.

Haoyu:Fiona. I just came...

Fiona:(She came up to him) Hi.

Haoyu:Oh, hi Fi. See... You're the first one here...

Fiona:Yes, I just wanted to look at the sea.

Haoyu:Oh, it's great. (Noticed Fiona's bracelet) A beautiful bracelet.

Fiona:Thank you. I just found a box at home and there were a lot of them.

Haoyu:Really? And which ones are there?

Meanwhile, with Alina.

Alina left the house with a joyful smile. She immediately ran and met her friends.

Alina:Hi girls!

Cristine, Julia and Katya:Hi.

Alina:Yesterday was very cool. I even wanted to spend more time with my new friends.

Cristine:We also.

Leo, Emma, Yuri and Cass almost walked past them, and they noticed the girls.

Leo, Emma, Yuri and Cass:Hi.

Emma:Are you going to the sea like all of us?

Alina:Yes, we just wanted to have more fun with you.

Krash:Hi! (With Chiko, Rose and Wally coming up to the girls) How was the mood yesterday?

Alina:Very good. We're all going to the beach together. Emma told us. Come on.

Krash:Let's go (Everyone is coming)!

Leo:I hope Haoyu has been with Fiona for a long time.

On the beach.

Fiona and Haoyu are examining bracelets from a jewelry box.

Haoyu:There is a whole collection of them.

Fiona:Yes, but you know what's amazing? When I touched the shell on my bracelet, I became a mermaid.

Haoyu:Wow... and if it's from mermaids, as in the legend.

Fiona:(She put her hand on Haoyu's shoulder) Do you think that I am too?

Haoyu:(Blushes) Yes... (Wipes under his nose) Don't pay attention, it's just that I... (Fiona laughs softly with a smile)

Heroes:Hi.

Alina, the girls and the characters approach the couple.

Alina:What are you looking for there?

Fiona:We are looking at a jewelry box with bracelets (Shows a jewelry box with bracelets).

Others:Wow!

Rose:How beautiful they are.

Dynamic Dolphin:But where did they come from?

Fiona:I don't know. When I left the house, I noticed them and applied them. And then when I touched the biggest shell on the beach (Showed the biggest shell on the bracelet), I became a mermaid.

Others:Mermaid?

Ariel and Flounder continued to watch, but they noticed something on the ground and swam away.

Alina:And, according to the legend, it is not said about them?

Fiona:This will be a legend, but a story. Previously, humans and mermaids got along and... used bracelets.

Everyone was surprised by the story and realized that these bracelets belonged to humans and mermaids.

Heroes:Not happening.

Krash:So the bracelets are still there.

Kayna:But maybe the mermaids should be alive.

Lan:But if you don't take into account the fact that they stopped communicating with people because of hunting and betrayal. Maybe there was a disaster somewhere.

SpongeBob:So one of them asked us to.

Cristine:Yes, but how will we become mermaids if everyone has already come to the sea.

Everyone noticed that there are already people on the beach. Balan, having seen the jungle, has already come up with it.

Balan:I have an idea. We can go to the jungle.

Grumpy:So what?

Balan:Like what? There's a cliff to the sea and we can turn into mermaids.

Lance:That's a great idea, brother.

Alina:And when are we going?

Balan:After lunch. In the meantime, swim!

Krash:I'm the first one!

Chiko:No, I.

Everyone went swimming at the sea, except for Fiona and Haoyu, who were watching them.

Fiona:Haoyu, can I ask you a question?

Haoyu:Eh... yes.

Fiona:Why are you blushing? (Haoyu blushes) And again. Maybe I put my hand on you?

Haoyu:No, I felt good. It's just me, a little-

Fiona:(She put her hand on Haoyu's shoulder) Don't be so nervous. I understand, but I think you should relax (Smiled looking at him).

Haoyu:Oh... (He put his hand on Fiona's arm) yes.

Fiona:(He chuckled once) Maybe we should join our friends?

Haoyu:Yes.

Fiona and Haoyu join the others at the water until Cass notices it.

Cass:Did you see (Leo, Emma and Yuri turned to her)?

Leo:What?

Cass:(Whisper) In my opinion, Fiona loves Haoyu too.

Emma:But I think we should continue. When my mom met my dad, they were testing their feelings in the same cafe.

They continued to hang out in the water until Patrick was about to jump from a great height.

Patrick:Hey guys! Beware! I'm going to set off a bomb right now!

When he jumped, a large water with the size of a truck was formed.

Later.

Alina boarded the bus, where her friends were waiting for them.

Natalya:I hope you take good care of Alina. But just don't scare about predators like snakes or spiders.

Balan:We promise that your daughter will be fine.

Alina:They promise.

Alina's parents:Good Luck.

The bus left while Alina's parents anointed the heroes' hands. The heroes stood near the entrance to the jungle while the Mayor explained about security.

Mayor:And finally, if you get lost, let us know, we will find you.

Carlin:Thanks for the information.

Mayor:Have a nice day.

When he left, the heroes entered the jungle. The characters admired and were delighted by the beauty. However, the Husky Lilo and the Street Cat were a little worried about a butterfly that could poison the animals. But Marino was gesturing to be calm.

Alina:So, we almost forgot about the bracelets. We just need to find the cliff.

Carlin:But there is a place where you can sit down, we go there right away.

The heroes immediately stopped near the cliff and have already put on bracelets except SpongeBob, Patrick, Squidward and Mr. Krabs.

SpongeBob:So guys, I'll go straight to the water and catch you when I get rectangular.

When he dived into the water, he became rectangular. That's why Ariel and Flounder noticed in the water and realized that it was them.

Alina:Is there a solid no?

SpongeBob:No, I'm even alive. You can jump!

Patrick, Squidward and Mr. Krabs have jumped into the water and are looking at their friends.

Mr. Krabs:Come on, let's go!

The heroes nodded at each other and simultaneously jumped to SpongeBob rubbing the shells.

Alina:Come on, Come on, Come on!

*From the first person of Alina diving into the water, the screen went dark*

SpongeBob:Alina, open your eyes. Look at your tentacles instead of legs.

From the third person, Alina opened her eyes and noticed tentacles instead of legs, like her hair. And her gray-haired clothes became on the theme of the sea.

Alina:Am I an octopussy lioness now? (Happily) Great.

Patrick:And what kind of ours...

Alina noticed the others that they had become mermaids. Except for Yuri, Lucy and Ink Blaster who had tentacles instead of legs.

Alina:You look so cool.

Cristine:Thank you. I even liked that tail.

Bonnie:And we swim without any problems.

Haoyu blushes when he sees Fiona with a fish tail.

Haoyu:You are so beautiful in the form of a mermaid...

Fiona:(Blushes) Oh, thank you and you look nice.

Haoyu:Thank.

Leo swam up behind him.

Leo:(Whisper) Keep up the good work.

Leo swam away and Cass swam up to Haoyu.

Cass:(Whisper) And don't forget to tell her you love her (She sailed away).

Alina:Well, since we have become mermaids, and some are half octopuses, we need to look for the one who gave the box.

Ariel:It's me (The heroes were scared, but the strong characters protect).

Flounder:Don't be afraid, we are harmless.

Tornado Wolf:But you'll show up, otherwise we don't believe you.

Ariel:Good. (With Flounder came out of the stone, making the heroes gasp) Good afternoon.

Alina:A real mermaid.

Krash:So the legend is alive.

Flounder:And what kind of legend is this?

Balan:This is a legend about meeting mermaids. There was even a story about how people were friends with them, but because of hunting and betrayal, everything changed.

Ariel:We've heard about it too, my father told me.

Heroes:Wow!

Cristine:And why not at their place?

Ariel:The eels of the evil octopus woman stole the box that contained the bracelets that you wear. (The heroes looked at the bracelets) But I was able to return it with Flounder, but we got lost.

Alina:It's horrible. It needs to be returned.

Marina:But what about this woman?

Ariel:She wanted to capture the whole world with bracelets. I don't know how to handle it myself. By the way, my name is Ariel.

Alina:Nice to meet you. We can tell you our names when we all leave at once.

Ariel:Let's just find out and come up with everything together.

Cristine:But we don't know where your house is.

Ariel:My home is a sea castle, to be honest, I am a princess myself.

Rose:So you're still a princess.

Carlin:Then let's go ahead.

All:Hurray!

Everyone set off back to the sea castle.

Meanwhile, with eels.

The eels swim back until the second one notices the heroes in the distance.

Eel No. 2:Look!

Eel No. 1:(She noticed the heroes) It's them! That is, a mermaid and a fish. They have a whole company now.

Eel No. 2:And what should be done? We de eels are dangerous.

Eel No. 1:Eels are dangerous, but there are a lot of them, you can't drag them in. (I came up with something) What if we call out the predators? And most importantly... bracelets.

To be continued...

[thatscrewyballyhooeyhollywood]

Classic Film Festival Day 1

Picture it: it's Labor Day weekend 2023. The town is El Segundo, a charming postcard-esque community just south of Los Angeles International Airport. The venue is the Old Town Music Hall, a 188-seat movie palace originally built in 1921, and now home to a 1925 Wurlitzer Theater Pipe organ.

And the event is Cinecon 59: a five-day film festival where cinephiles gather to experience rare, sometimes newly restored, and often otherwise unavailable classics from the silent and studio eras.

I was excited to attend this year, and see an incredible line-up of rare gems over five days, starting with Opening Night.

A Language All My Own (1935)

Paramount Pictures

Director: David Fleischer

Among the many animators working during the Golden Age of Hollywood, the Fleischer brothers (Max and Dave) left their indelible mark on the field with iconic and beloved characters like Popeye, KoKo the Clown, and of course, Betty Boop.

Cinecon opened this year with a newly restored Betty Boop cartoon, in which our titular heroine - a very successful nightclub singer - travels to Japan to perform in front of her adoring fans overseas. At a brisk 6 minutes, much of the cartoon's humor comes from Betty's flight in an anthropomorphic airplane (the plane literally "runs" down the runway), but it does include a unique Betty Boop number - the eponymous "A Language All My Own" - and plenty of classic Betty dance moves onstage.

A very fun opening to what promised to be an exciting weekend.

The Gold Diggers (1923)

Warner Bros.

Director: Harry Beaumont

Betty Boop was immediately followed by this light and airy rom-com, a film long thought lost until four of its six reels were found in the back of an old van a few years ago. Newly restored, and very likely premiering for the first time since its original 1923 release, The Gold Diggers tells the story of Wally Saunders (John Harron) who has fallen madly in love with chorus girl Violet Dayne (Anne Cornwall) and wants to marry her. Unfortunately, Wally's rich uncle and guardian, Stephen Lee (Wyndham Standing) pulls the plug on that dream - all chorus girls are ruthless gold diggers, after all - and he forbids the union.

Heartbroken, Violet turns to her best friend and fellow chorus girl, Jerry La Mar (Hope Hampton) who decides to show Uncle Stephen what a real gold digger is. Maybe once he falls for one himself, the stubborn old codger will realize Violet is truly in love with Wally, and let the two live happily ever after.

Jerry's plan is brilliant, but one thing she doesn't count on? Falling in love with Stephen herself.

I will admit this was a difficult one for me to follow because it was missing two reels, and even with the intertitles explaining the missing sequences, it felt a little discombobulating. But what did survive was beautifully restored, and it had some great laugh-out-loud moments.

Adventure's End (1937)

Universal Pictures

Director: Arthur Lubin

The last film I watched on opening night was this early, pre-Stagecoach (1939) John Wayne high seas adventure.

Funnily enough, Wayne plays "Duke" Slade, a pearl diver working in the South Pacific, who manages to piss off the locals and escapes their wrath by sneaking aboard a whaling ship docked nearby. Slade is immediately drawn into shipboard drama - the captain is dying and he doesn't want his beloved whaler to fall into the hands of his crafty first mate. He implores Slade to marry his daughter, Janet Drew (Diana Gibson), so he can name Slade his heir, and hand the ship over to the two of them.

Surprisingly (yeah, actually, not surprisingly since Diana Gibson is drop-dead gorgeous), Slade agrees to this mad plan, and he is named captain right before Captain Abner (Montagu Love) passes on.

Does first mate Rand Husk (Moroni Olsen) fall in line with this new arrangement? Of course not. He had his sights set on marrying Janet himself, and he sure as hell isn't reporting to some half-naked bum that clambered onto his ship.

So, Slade sure has his hands full. In addition to a new wife anxious to annul their marriage now that her beloved father has died, he now has to captain a whaler that hasn't caught anything in ages, deal with a mutinous crew, and somehow stop his meddlesome pearl diving partner, Kalo (Paul White), from making things worse.

This really was an adventure, even if a bit *cough* of a stretch when it came to the storyline... a dying captain marries his daughter off to some bedraggled stranger who just climbed aboard his ship? But eh, it is what it is. And the visual effects were spectacular for 1937. Some of the whale chasing sequences were clearly rear projection, but some others were done.... how???

[welcomehomenewneighborsocblog]

Lennie Lens (Welcome Home Oc)

Name: Lennie Lens Occupation: Photographer Species: Human Puppet Sexuality: Straight Headcannon Voice Actor: Glenn Howerton Residence: Camville (formerly) ; Home Relatives: Marjorie Lens (mother); Ansel Lens (father) Personality: He has a big love of photography and loves taking great pictures of anything from forest shots to town events. Anything is a subject matter to him. He will often get so engrossed that he might ignore things in front of them. This also spells a problem for him because he can often get lost trying to take a picture. Even if he wasn't focused on a picture, he often has bad directions that he will sometimes end up in places he wasn't originally going which causes the other neighbors to have to help him. As a result, he can come off as rather ditzy but passionate but really is skilled at his art of photography. He often puts up his work for the neighbors to see and admire. He also lets his passion get on board with other people's interest if it would make a good subject matter. He can get discouraged when he misses a shot or opportunity but still will press on if he can keep on getting his target. Background: Ever since he was young, he was always fascinated by taking pictures by any means necessary. However, he also had a problem with being bad with directions because sometimes he got so engrossed in a picture he'd get lost and had to have someone find him in the woods. One day he tried getting a picture of a rabbit so much that he wandered too far from home for anyone to notice him gone. He then started wandering further and further until he got to Home where he was greeted by everyone. He eventually made himself at home there until his parents found him and he happily told them everything. He then decided he wanted to stay in Home which they happily agreed. He then became the town's photographer but people still need to direct him to places so he doesn't get lost. * His bad sense of directions is based on Zoro from One Piece and Ryoga from Ranma 1/2. * His segments would be centered around photography especially ways to find himself at a location with the reader's help, same & differences, and ways to identity things in a setting. * He often loves roaming around the neighborhood taking pictures of people. * He is close friends with Ollie and Sylvie and they often have to help him with directions. He also loves taking pictures of Sylvie's garden. * He is also very close with Wally, Sally, Frank, Connie, Genji, and Doli. * He will get involved with Frank's butterfly adventures to take pictures of butterflies. * He respects Wally due to having a mutual fascination their different arts. * The og series was going to have a phographer before it was canceled and it was thought up by Gladys Glow. Created through picrew.me/en/image_maker/17291…