Shrike Team #4: Boughs of Freedom [Archive]

Leonhard

August 21st 2006, 03:20 PM

Ah. You could consult on that. I do envision Hearthstone being well equipped in the nanotech arena...

Well... I already know quite a few things about nanotechnology gained from pure interest in the subject. What I don't have rock solid grounding in subject, plus there's a lot of physics that don't know much about. Do ask however, since I have read a few books on the subject and more importantly I know exactly where to find the right answer.

though I've not made use of it yet in a story.

The cybernetic technologies is an area (amongst many) where nanoscience could fit nicely. Having nonbiological elements up against natural elements, will require alot of knowledge about the dynamics between the two on a molecular level. Especially if one seeks to create interaction between the two.

Not too long ago scientist discovered a new form of carbon called nanotubes, they are basicly sheets of graphite one atom thick rolled up into tubes. It has been theoretised that one could use them to create materials with a tensile strength up to a hundred times higher than the toughest steel alloys ever produced, and would weigh considerably less.

Btw the high tensile steel alloys are actually stonger than titanium alloys. Titanium-Carbide alloys (as in shrike toon 1) has a high thermal shock and abrasion resistance, but its tensile strength is only about a half of some other steel alloys. Titanium alloys can only approach the highest tensile strenths of steel, however their advantage lies in their high weight to strength ratio; They have about the same strength, but only weigh half as much.

Anyways, please ask me about anything! I love to sit down and analyse/numbercrunch such things. I had a blast with the steamtech analysis, which you will get one day when I get a decent version of Words to replace Works. It will btw also be updated with a few notes on the magnetic field of hearthstone (alot of wierd things here, for example they won't be able to use compases).

jpholding

August 21st 2006, 03:47 PM

Anyways, please ask me about anything! I love to sit down and analyse/numbercrunch such things. I had a blast with the steamtech analysis, which you will get one day when I get a decent version of Words to replace Works. It will btw also be updated with a few notes on the magnetic field of hearthstone (alot of wierd things here, for example they won't be able to use compases).

OK, let me pose this one. I've seen ideas of nanobots as "maintenance drones" in equipment. Theoretically, if they maintain a piece of equipment, as well as each other, could that equipment keep running for a very long time? Even indefinitely, perhaps?

No compasses, hm? I never planned to have them use one, but that's interesting. You may help me develop some storylines....

sc_q_jayce

August 21st 2006, 04:18 PM

What do you mean by "keep running?" Could you be a little more specific in your usage?

Leonhard just doesn't want to call himself a materials scientist. :rasberry:

I seem to also have stumbled into that portion of the field, dealing with nanoparticle catalysis, myself. Although it seems like Leonhard will probably be more in tune with the field. :)

Leon, what journals do you read? :)

Leonhard

August 21st 2006, 06:23 PM

OK, let me pose this one. I've seen ideas of nanobots as "maintenance drones" in equipment. Theoretically, if they maintain a piece of equipment, as well as each other, could that equipment keep running for a very long time? Even indefinitely, perhaps?

That whole issue rides on whether or not nanorobots will ever become a reality. There is a great debate going amongst scientists with lots of guesses, theories and estimates being thrown from either side, but we don’t have much if any (mind you, I’m not up to date) hard data.

I say look at yourself, your body is comprised of cells, which utilizes hundreds of thousands of nanomachines (proteins, enzymes and dna) to perform all of your functions. I don’t think its a matter of if, but when and how well can we make it? There are a lot of issues to be solved, how would the nanobots even build and position something on the atomic scale, how do we supply our nanobots with materials and energy, how do we control them, how do we prevent them from running amok? Each of these questions are actually thousands of questions, but from where I’m sitting, it doesn’t appear to be unsolvable only very hard.

I don’t think its impossible, but then again I’m rather young and might just be too optimistic. Then again, plants can heal themselves, animals heal themselves, we can heal ourselves, why not machines.

One could imagine tiny machines capable of traveling through microscopic veins in the materials. They would constantly scan for any signs of errors, and when they find an error, other machines could come and start to demolish that section (where talking microscopic here), and then other machines could rebuild it into a copy of what it should be like from some memory bank. It would be very complex technology, I doubt one could build a single all-purpose nanobot for all of this, so it would need thousands upon thousands of different types of machines each with a highly specialized task.

However, if the problems of how to power the nanobots, manipulate stuff precisely, exercising control and error prevention are solved. Then sure why not! The materials they would need could just be recycled from the damaged parts, the only ingredient needed is steady supply of energy. The main reason we are not able to keep on living forever, is that God saw it in his wisdom to not supply us with a sufficiently capable regenerative mechanism. Sure, we can heal ourselves somewhat, but somewhere in our twenties we cross a threshold where our body is damaged faster than it gets repaired. The damage just slowly piles up until the body cannot sustain itself any longer. If one however equipped a machine with a sufficiently efficient self-regenerating machine, then it would go on and on as long as it had an energy supply.

There may be limitations however. Though the nanobots could rebuild everything, stuff that requires a lot of precision might regenerate rather slowly since it would have to employ a lot of error correction. It could probably not manipulate highly reactive substances either since it the nanobots themselves might be caught up and disintegrated in a chemical reaction (special machinery might be needed here). Even for simple things like walls where atomic precision isn’t a key, the speed of growth might be closer to bamboo or stuff like that, than the T-1000 from terminator.

This is my answer for now, ask me again in seven years when I’ve gotten my Ph.D :tounge:

No compasses, hm? I never planned to have them use one, but that's interesting.

This is because of your whole magnetic levitation idea, if that has to work Hearthstone has to have a very even magnetic field, with field lines coming from the ground up, so a compass would basically just point towards either the ground or the sky, which isn’t very useful.

However, I have not the faintest idea about how a world could have such a magnetic field. Maybe the core is an insanely powerful monopole magnet. This could of course be one of the great unanswered mysteries of science on Hearthstone and its actual cause is just some seraph manifesting some aspect of itself :wink:

Another major issue is that, the magnetic field is mostly a ground effect, seeing as polarium doesn’t just fly out of the hands of the rangers and into the stratosphere and the vehicles aren‘t able to use electromagnets to just fly around with. Perhaps it’s a weird effect created by some weird substance like polarium that causes a super strong magnetic field to be present right at the surface level.

You may help me develop some storylines…

Well whatever improves your ideas, I’m just spouting out facts as I find them. You can always pull the ‘Alternate laws of physics’ card if you get tired of working with ‘realistic’ physics.

Leonhard just doesn't want to call himself a materials scientist. :rasberry:

Meh... I'm just wondering what in name of satans unmentionables I'm gonna write on my resumé.

jpholding

August 22nd 2006, 11:09 AM

What do you mean by "keep running?" Could you be a little more specific in your usage?

Not without revealing a major plot point, sorry. :sad:

However, if the problems of how to power the nanobots, manipulate stuff precisely, exercising control and error prevention are solved. Then sure why not!

OK, then it sounds like I'm on reasonably safe ground.

On the side, I don't know if you saw this, but I have noted somwhere on TWeb that there are two types of polarium. The blue type is used for vehicles and levitation, while the red type is incorproated into armor as a sort of repellant.

I hope to have some pages up later today....

sc_q_jayce

August 22nd 2006, 12:00 PM

Meh... I'm just wondering what in name of satans unmentionables I'm gonna write on my resumé.You'll survive. Where are you doing your PhD?

jpholding

August 22nd 2006, 12:31 PM

He's doin' it on Hearthstone. :hehe:

Anyways. Here's the first three pages (long ones)....I'm gonna go out for a bit.

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4001.html

sc_q_jayce

August 22nd 2006, 12:45 PM

He's doin' it on Hearthstone. :hehe:

Anyways. Here's the first three pages (long ones)....I'm gonna go out for a bit.

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4001.html
Does Hearthstone have a lot of Academic Journals? :teeth:

Teallaura

August 22nd 2006, 02:33 PM

Why don't you volunteer to write them, Chopstick?

:grin:

sc_q_jayce

August 22nd 2006, 03:02 PM

Because I'm writing your campaign, Teallie! :rant:

jpholding

August 22nd 2006, 03:16 PM

Does Hearthstone have a lot of Academic Journals? :teeth:

Heck yeah. You think Dr. Hornacek writes for their version of MAD magazine? :hehe:

sc_q_jayce

August 22nd 2006, 03:19 PM

Heck yeah. You think Dr. Hornacek writes for their version of MAD magazine? :hehe:
Hey! Don't dis MAD's scholarly reputation!

So I know we've met some pretty interesting scientists as of date, but who would you consider to be the prominent scientists of Hearthstone, past and present, and what did they do?

Teallie, for your campaign, I was trying to name some geography, and I kept wanting to name something "Nullabor" but I had no idea why that name kept coming up and up and up...

And now I'm going to kill JP Holding because not just is he going to make me fail my PhD, he is also putting a stint on my creativity. :sad:

jpholding

August 22nd 2006, 03:26 PM

Hey! Don't dis MAD's scholarly reputation!

Please. The REAL serious peer review goes on over at "Cracked".

So I know we've met some pretty interesting scientists as of date, but who would you consider to be the prominent scientists of Hearthstone, past and present, and what did they do?

Golly, I dunno yet. But you know what? In a few years, I have something planned that may let us find out. :hehe:

Teallie, for your campaign, I was trying to name some geography, and I kept wanting to name something "Nullabor" but I had no idea why that name kept coming up and up and up...

And now I'm going to kill JP Holding because not just is he going to make me fail my PhD, he is also putting a stint on my creativity. :sad:

With both my sites! Got ya comin' and goin', Cap'n Chopstick! :thumb:

sc_q_jayce

August 22nd 2006, 03:32 PM

Just be glad I don't have time to refute all your comics! :wink:

:rasberry:

Leonhard

August 22nd 2006, 07:19 PM

Where are you doing your PhD?He's doin' it on Hearthstone. :hehe:

Well, I sent an 800 page dissertation on the mechanics of tilkrieg eskimo kissing to the institute of behavioural science in Kerros. I had to do alot experiments in the field going through hundreds of test subjects :hehe: Seriously, I don't know what I'll do my Ph.D on; I'm just starting tommorow and it'll take five years before I even get to consider that.

The front edge of science is changing rapidly, what is known outside of the circles, is usually two years behind where it really is.

Back to the cartoon!

Hmm... on the bottom left picture where Brom Shriker head is piced between the metallic claws of the machine you got the shading wrong. The inner sides of the claws should be slightly darker to give a sence of depth. My first impression was the that he was holding up his elbows in some mock expression, and it took me some time before I realised it was the claw. You've certainly improved with respect to colorising Tyra; The darker tones of her fur makes her eyes look more vivid.

So it looks rather good so far, I can't wait for part two.

Oh, I have a question mr. Holding. Is Hornacek aware of whats going on? Snay seemed to be aware of his sorroundings whenever Gen'a'too was in control, because Eidolon was able to adress him directly in shriketoon 2. However, when Felicity briefly came back in control at the end of shriketoon 3, she seemed unaware of her misfortune.

sc_q_jayce

August 23rd 2006, 07:01 AM

Oh come now, Leon, I'm starting my PhD program as a first year graduate student tomorrow, too, so pray tell, what are you doing and where are you doing it? What program are you accepted into?

jpholding

August 23rd 2006, 11:47 AM

Hmm... on the bottom left picture where Brom Shriker head is piced between the metallic claws of the machine you got the shading wrong. The inner sides of the claws should be slightly darker to give a sence of depth. My first impression was the that he was holding up his elbows in some mock expression, and it took me some time before I realised it was the claw. You've certainly improved with respect to colorising Tyra; The darker tones of her fur makes her eyes look more vivid.

Erm, well...they're inside a sort of warehouse, so that won't last, and it's also the why of the claw shading. :sad: It's darker in there. The colors will be back to the usual next time you see them all.

So it looks rather good so far, I can't wait for part two.

Thank you...I hope to have more next Tuesday. Today if I do anything it will be revamped RP #1 pages.

Oh, I have a question mr. Holding. Is Hornacek aware of whats going on?

No -- I see the one possessed as in a sort of sleeplike state of consciousness. Eidolon had to "wake up" S'nay to talk to him like that. S'nay is also a little unusual in that his possession state went "on" and "off" with his transformation (a result of his inner conflicted nature, as Gen'a'too observes).

We'll see soon (Eidolon will explain near the end of this story) that the K'rek'skran can exert varying degrees of control over others depending on the way their minds work. Eidolon will put it something like this: The only "rules" are that they can't possess someone with the Holy Spirit (the Sacred/Sacramental Fire, as they say). Otherwise it's unpredictable. (His own mental powers are the same way; stronger minds are less suspectible...he'll note also in this one that he has NEVER been able to work anything on the mind of a Tilkrig; they're too alert and intelligent to be affected that way.)

However, when Felicity briefly came back in control at the end of shriketoon 3, she seemed unaware of her misfortune.

Yeah. :hehe: And that'll mean something real funny in this story. I've already inked the page where it happens....hee heee heee....

jpholding

August 28th 2006, 12:05 PM

Couple more pages....pick up here:

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4004.html

ShadowLands

August 29th 2006, 10:44 PM

Couple more pages....pick up here:

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4004.html
All this reading a couple pages and then stopping is maddening. What happened to posting a whole issue at once? (I must not be keeping up with things.)

jpholding

August 30th 2006, 09:16 AM

All this reading a couple pages and then stopping is maddening. What happened to posting a whole issue at once? (I must not be keeping up with things.)

I asked a few weeks back if people would prefer installments...the consensus was yes. Actually it is the way most web comics work anyway.

On the side, I'm about 1/2 done with the inks for this story.

Leonhard

August 30th 2006, 02:38 PM

Couple more pages....pick up here:

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4004.html

Heh, that water joke was almost as good as the rangtoon4039! Lemme see, though Brom recieved a direct order, I doubt that will hold him back. I can't wait to see what the "ways of the subtely" are.

"...the undoing of the sorceress work in the past"? I guess M'l'strom has never heard of the predestination paradox! But then again solutions to paradoxes of timetravel depends on the nature of time. I'm a presentist :teeth:.

jpholding

August 30th 2006, 02:44 PM

Lemme see, though Brom recieved a direct order, I doubt that will hold him back

If it did I'd have to put THE END up right now. :wink: Of course, keep in mind that all he got was a direct order not to be in the operation. Honkin' big loophole there, ain't it? :wink: But Tyra's so arrogant she doesn't know any better.

I can't wait to see what the "ways of the subtely" are.

It'll be on page 10. :hehe:

"...the undoing of the sorceress work in the past"? I guess M'l'strom has never heard of the predestination paradox! But then again solutions to paradoxes of timetravel depends on the nature of time. I'm a presentist :teeth:.

I'm a Molinist myself. But I know some ideas that if the past is changed a new universe pops into existence with two timelines where there was one before.

jpholding

August 31st 2006, 09:55 AM

I'll be gone Sept. 1-3 because of the banning auction, but there will likely be another 2 page update tomorrow.

Darth Executor

August 31st 2006, 10:07 AM

When did that green woman (don't you dare say anything, it's your fault the comics turned into haze, I hate short updates :thumbd:) turn evil?

jpholding

August 31st 2006, 10:39 AM

When did that green woman (don't you dare say anything, it's your fault the comics turned into haze, I hate short updates :thumbd:) turn evil?

Gee whiz. He wants 'em often but he doesn't want 'em short. :lol: Relax....they're only short because I'm also working on the revamped RP #1 at the same time. By the end of the next week I'll be done with that and the updates will have at least 5 pages.

Tyra, we'll see soon, has actually been bad news since the very beginning. Eidolon will fill us in on about, um, page 16 or so. There'll also be a hint at the end of the next update tomorrow.

Edit add: Just to prove that I'm also working on RP #1, here's an example of the last page I redid. Not far to go now.

Teallaura

August 31st 2006, 04:40 PM

:twitch: You couldn't already tell that Tyra was bad news?

Anywho.... :whistle:

Darth Executor

August 31st 2006, 05:07 PM

Not at the beginning.

Teallaura

September 1st 2006, 07:22 AM

Actually I had my doubts about her as soon as I saw her... :shrug:

Well, maybe JPH will get the new pages up when he gets back..... :shrug:

This is boring! :zzz:

sc_q_jayce

September 1st 2006, 12:08 PM

New pages up!

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4006.html

Have fun. :)

Teallaura

September 1st 2006, 12:35 PM

:yipee:

Leonhard

September 3rd 2006, 08:17 AM

Update Alert: Four new pages Pick up at Boughs of Freedom (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4008.html)

Oh, this is good, really good...

RumTumTugger

September 3rd 2006, 03:36 PM

Drat I do not like cliff hangers that well, Hope it doesn't take JPH long to add the rest.

September 4th 2006, 02:02 PM

Upon seeing the new turn of events, my thought process went something like this:

First thought: ...What the...?

Second thought: Whoa, never saw that coming.

Third thought: Poor Brom...

Fourth thought: What's Holding been smoking?

Fifth thought: Okay, I'll admit, it's a clever ploy after all. :hehe:

Thanks for letting us know about the new installment, Leonhard, and I hope JPH manages a few more pages in the near future. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next.

sc_q_jayce

September 4th 2006, 03:55 PM

September 6th 2006, 12:47 PM

jpholding

September 7th 2006, 09:29 AM

JP says that he's updating RP#1 pages right now, but should expect more pages out for ST#4 by Friday. Also, he won't be back until Thursday or so since the Ban starts only on the weekdays. Why am I telling you all this?

I asked you to. :glare:

Upon seeing the new turn of events, my thought process went something like this:

Fourth thought: What's Holding been smoking?

Well, wasn't it you who wanted Brom and Felicity as an item? Well, there you go. :hehe: It just took a little work is all.

JPH manages a few more pages in the near future. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next.

I think Friday is the next one. I'm sure you can see who's about to make his return appearance. :hehe:

I'm about 6/7 done with the inks on this one. And jb, this includes Felicity's conversion to the Covenant that you were hoping for; should be on about, oh, page 25-26 or so I think.

September 7th 2006, 10:06 AM

Well, wasn't it you who wanted Brom and Felicity as an item? Well, there you go. :hehe: It just took a little work is all.

I did? :huh: Did I make a remark to that effect over lunch at No Other Gods? Your memory must be better than mine, then. Not that that's a particularly outstanding feat in and of itself. :tongue:

I think Friday is the next one. I'm sure you can see who's about to make his return appearance. :hehe:

Oh good, never a dull moment when he's around. :teeth:

I'm about 6/7 done with the inks on this one. And jb, this includes Felicity's conversion to the Covenant that you were hoping for; should be on about, oh, page 25-26 or so I think.

Much better, that should be an interesting scene. Any estimate yet as to when those pages will be colored and up for viewing?

jpholding

September 7th 2006, 10:26 AM

I did? :huh: Did I make a remark to that effect over lunch at No Other Gods?

Maybe not. I thought it was you who wondered if they'd be an item, and it may have been here on TWeb. I know someone did, and someone else (Teal?) pointed out Eidolon's prophecy of friendship between them as a corrective.

Much better, that should be an interesting scene. Any estimate yet as to when those pages will be colored and up for viewing?

I seem to be able to put out a page a day (by the new measure) so I'd think the whole story will be done by September 30 (allowing also for doing a few revamped RP #1 pages). This looks to be the shortest story since the start....it might have made 67 pages under the old count, not sure.

Had a close call yesterday though. Florida's summer storms have been kind of vocal of late and a bolt struck just outside the room where the computer is. Good thing I'd unplugged the whole works just 20 minutes before.

Oh yeah...you say it's never dull when Eidolon is around? Well, you just wait until you see what he was like BEFORE he became an immortal....I've been thinking about that a lot lately and it'll turn the world upside down before I'm through.

September 7th 2006, 10:42 AM

Maybe not. I thought it was you who wondered if they'd be an item, and it may have been here on TWeb. I know someone did, and someone else (Teal?) pointed out Eidolon's prophecy of friendship between them as a corrective.

Maybe you're thinking of what Little Shepherd said here (http://www.theologyweb.com/campus/showpost.php?p=1522212&postcount=23)?

This is from an older issue, but am I the only one who thinks it's so obvious that Shriker and Hornacek are becoming all googly-eyed over each other(even though Eidolon said their friendship was destined, but not necessarily romantic . . . )? I remember some of your notes, and I can't help but think that it's just really good timing for them. I mean, you did say there would be some event in Hearthstone's future that would take care of that little problem of mixed marriages not producing children.

I seem to be able to put out a page a day (by the new measure) so I'd think the whole story will be done by September 30 (allowing also for doing a few revamped RP #1 pages). This looks to be the shortest story since the start....it might have made 67 pages under the old count, not sure.

Sounds like a recipe for frequent updates. :woohoo:

Had a close call yesterday though. Florida's summer storms have been kind of vocal of late and a bolt struck just outside the room where the computer is. Good thing I'd unplugged the whole works just 20 minutes before.

Pennsylvania's been getting a bit hammered with the weather lately, but nothing quite like that. :glare: The storm didn't manage any damage to your house, did it?

Oh yeah...you say it's never dull when Eidolon is around? Well, you just wait until you see what he was like BEFORE he became an immortal....I've been thinking about that a lot lately and it'll turn the world upside down before I'm through.

Now you've piqued my curiosity yet again. :hehe: I thought I remembered you remarking somewhere that you pictured Eidolon as somewhat of an "average Joe" prior to his acquisition of immortality.

On another note, any idea when you'll be starting work on the first issue of the Karu'shi Av'nen series? Looks fascinating.

jpholding

September 7th 2006, 11:23 AM

Maybe you're thinking of what Little Shepherd said

Yes, that's it. Now I recall. I dunno why I got you two mixed up. :lolo:

Sounds like a recipe for frequent updates. :woohoo:

Hmm, well, here's the thing....in two months or so I'm looking to revamp the toon site and market it more. I have a lot of options to consider. Here's just one out of many models:

http://www.thenorm.com/subscribe/

Do I do subscriptions with multiple levels? Password access? Email subscription? Free comics, but other stuff like plush toys or mugs or T shirts for support? Think about it, because I'll be asking for feedback on this as Range Patrol #5 comes to a close, probably in November. I'm guessing people would be willing to drop a mere buck a month on Hearthstone, but I'd rather keep it free if that keeps people from reading it and enjoying it. Or maybe the Cartel cycle will be a free sample, and future material like Karu'shi Av'nen will require payment. Eeek. Too many options here. Maybe I'll pick the one Brooks Trubee would complain the most about. :lol:

The storm didn't manage any damage to your house, did it?

Not that I could find. I think it actually struck the house next door but I'm not 100% sure. There's also a guy with a satellite dish behind us and he attracts a lot of strikes.

I thought I remembered you remarking somewhere that you pictured Eidolon as somewhat of an "average Joe" prior to his acquisition of immortality.

I had, but I hadn't thought about it yet in depth. As I think about it more (and I can't say much without spoiling a huge, huge part of the long-term narrative) he becomes a far more complex character than I ever imagined.

On another note, any idea when you'll be starting work on the first issue of the Karu'shi Av'nen series?

Vague guess....2010. I already know what a couple of the major points will be. Eidolon will come back from a journey to find that all of the Av'nen settlements have been destroyed. The Knight of Av'nen (to-be) challenges him to battle and loses; he turns out to be a thoroughly honest but misinformed sort who thought the Av'nen were evil. As a result of the loss he swears fealty to Eidolon. After finding out that the Av'nen were exterminated on order of a wicked king who was offended when some Av'nen in an assembly didn't laugh at his jokes, Eidolon calls up the Angel of Av'nen to see if any are left anywhere, and they find the last two, Blind Monk and Ch'lun Karu'shi. From there....I have no clear ideas, other than that tragically, this proves to be the end of the Av'nen race, since Eidolon (being immortal) is hesitant to enter into a marriage, and Blind Monk has taken, um, certain vows of chastity...

ShadowLands

September 7th 2006, 11:43 AM

Out of curiousity, what prevents Shriker from breaking free of his cell?

jpholding

September 7th 2006, 12:14 PM

Out of curiousity, what prevents Shriker from breaking free of his cell?

You'll find out why he won't (not can't) Friday. :wink: And also why it won't make any difference. :hehe:

Leonhard

September 7th 2006, 01:10 PM

I'm about 6/7 done with the inks on this one. And jb, this includes Felicity's conversion to the Covenant that you were hoping for; should be on about, oh, page 25-26 or so I think.

Heh, this will be interesting! I have wondered a bit about how your going to pull this off and I can't wait to see. Of course, if you make it Jack Chickian then I'll hunt you down, strap you into a chair and force read you articles by Acharys S for hours.

Out of curiousity, what prevents Shriker from breaking free of his cell?

You'll find out why he won't (not can't) Friday. And also why it won't make any difference.

Hey, isn't this one those honour/shame thingies? Since Brom was caught in the hands of the enemy, and perhaps since they probably believed that he was concorting with Hornacek (since he also broke orders and why else would he be there), he is now branded a traitor and is therefore completely void of any honour he ever had and is now has around a truckload of shame poured on top as well.

You know better than me about such cultures Holding, but isn't shame/honour irrespective of oneself, but of how one is in relation to the group? So even though Brom knows he isn't a traitor, he still feels ashamed because of how other people now sees him?

jpholding

September 7th 2006, 01:23 PM

Of course, if you make it Jack Chickian then I'll hunt you down, strap you into a chair and force read you articles by Acharys S for hours.

Whoooops....(erasing furiously). :lol:

Nah. It's not hard to tell even now and no big secret; the evidence of having been under Gen'a'too's control will convince her of the need to be under Covenant protection.

When Beamer gets his turn to convert, it'll be on the basis of evidence also...and Eidolon will help with that too. :teeth:

Hey, isn't this one those honour/shame thingies?

It's sad that such a fine analysis is so off base. :hehe: It's much simpler than that. Though a twist involving the whole issue of shame and deviancy WILL be involved.

You know better than me about such cultures Holding, but isn't shame/honour irrespective of oneself, but of how one is in relation to the group?

Yes. But that wouldn't come into play here anyway for reasons to be seen.

I'll be back tomorrow. Mrs. H has a routine eye doctor appointment this afternoon. :thumb:

jpholding

September 8th 2006, 11:23 AM

Leonhard

September 8th 2006, 03:03 PM

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4012.html

4 1/2 more pages....

I *am* surprised no one thought of this as why Shriker stayed in his cell. :ahem:

I'm hoping Eidolon's explanation ties it all together properly.

:doh: My mind completely left out the fact that Brom was obedient to the covenant, but hey gimme a break, for the past few days I've been losing alot of sleep learning new names, concepts and theories like, VSEPR valence shell electron pair repulsion theory, LCAO linear atomic orbital combinations, and all of the weird consequences of the Shrödinger equation. On top of that, linear algebra is a churn to learn. Of course, I enjoy studying it, but don't expect me to be very active, or very bright these next few weeks.

Btw, why didn't Tyra foresee that he could use his enourmous strength to chrush his cell? Did she just assume that since he gave up he was outbeaten? She sure aint bright for a tilkrieg. Oh, and shame on her for exploiting gullible Brom like that.

I must admit this was a good update, the look of Tyra as she trembled before Shriker was awesome and the dialogue between Eidolon and Shriker was cool too.

jpholding

September 8th 2006, 03:36 PM

Oyez! :hehe:

:doh: My mind completely left out the fact that Brom was obedient to the covenant, but hey gimme a break, for the past few days I've been losing alot of sleep learning new names, concepts and theories like,

I have no idea what you just said so I will present you with absolution. :solly: Even though Brom cited the Hearthstone version of Romans 13 just the last Range Patrol story. :hehe:

Btw, why didn't Tyra foresee that he could use his enourmous strength to chrush his cell? Did she just assume that since he gave up he was outbeaten? She sure aint bright for a tilkrieg

Much as why she doesn't care about Hornacek's red eyes. It's stuborrness and arrogance, really, that makes her blind to these things. And that is also a Tilkrig personality flaw...look for a telling line about this from Eidolon soon, when he and Tyra face off. Keep in mind what the intro material says about them being more inclined to follow than lead. So what happens when they DO assume a leadership position? Disaster, usually. (Von Lucre...hmm.) Question for thought: Do you think Beamer would want to lead the Range Patrol if it were offered to him?

Oh, and shame on her for exploiting gullible Brom like that.

If Teal is watching, I'd be curious to know what told her Tyra was bad news from the start.

I must admit this was a good update, the look of Tyra as she trembled before Shriker was awesome and the dialogue between Eidolon and Shriker was cool too.

I am happy if it makes sense. Trying to make sure there were no loose ends to his explanation was the hardest part of this story.

Ah well. Mrs. H is out with coworkers tonight so I think I'll do some RP #1 pages after work time is over.

September 8th 2006, 04:13 PM

Yes, that's it. Now I recall. I dunno why I got you two mixed up. :lolo:

No worries, I'm sure you won't make the error again. :grin:

Hmm, well, here's the thing....in two months or so I'm looking to revamp the toon site and market it more. I have a lot of options to consider. Here's just one out of many models:

http://www.thenorm.com/subscribe/

Do I do subscriptions with multiple levels? Password access? Email subscription? Free comics, but other stuff like plush toys or mugs or T shirts for support? Think about it, because I'll be asking for feedback on this as Range Patrol #5 comes to a close, probably in November. I'm guessing people would be willing to drop a mere buck a month on Hearthstone, but I'd rather keep it free if that keeps people from reading it and enjoying it. Or maybe the Cartel cycle will be a free sample, and future material like Karu'shi Av'nen will require payment. Eeek. Too many options here. Maybe I'll pick the one Brooks Trubee would complain the most about. :lol:

I recommend the "Free comics, but other stuff like plush toys or mugs or T shirts for support". Of course, that may have something to do with my not wanting to have to pay money to read Hearthstone. :whistle:

Not that I could find.

Excellent.

I think it actually struck the house next door but I'm not 100% sure.

What, you didn't go over to check it out and see if your neighbors might need any help in case of damage?

I had, but I hadn't thought about it yet in depth. As I think about it more (and I can't say much without spoiling a huge, huge part of the long-term narrative) he becomes a far more complex character than I ever imagined.

I look forward to finding out more. Will various tidbits regarding Eidolon's personal history and characteristics be appearing soon?

Vague guess....2010. I already know what a couple of the major points will be. Eidolon will come back from a journey to find that all of the Av'nen settlements have been destroyed. The Knight of Av'nen (to-be) challenges him to battle and loses; he turns out to be a thoroughly honest but misinformed sort who thought the Av'nen were evil. As a result of the loss he swears fealty to Eidolon. After finding out that the Av'nen were exterminated on order of a wicked king who was offended when some Av'nen in an assembly didn't laugh at his jokes, Eidolon calls up the Angel of Av'nen to see if any are left anywhere, and they find the last two, Blind Monk and Ch'lun Karu'shi. From there....I have no clear ideas, other than that tragically, this proves to be the end of the Av'nen race, since Eidolon (being immortal) is hesitant to enter into a marriage, and Blind Monk has taken, um, certain vows of chastity...

Good plotline. A shame it's so distant as of yet, but that'll give you more time to work out the details.

Question for thought: Do you think Beamer would want to lead the Range Patrol if it were offered to him?

My suspicion is no. He simply doesn't seem the sort who would prefer a lasting position of leadership. Add to that his inclinations as a Tilkrig, and I suspect that we have someone who, although no doubt capable of being an excellent leader if required, would much prefer to continue to play his present role, more or less.

I am happy if it makes sense. Trying to make sure there were no loose ends to his explanation was the hardest part of this story.

It makes perfect sense to me, and no plot holes jump out at me.

I do have one question, though. What color are each of Eidolon's eyes? I think I've seen a few pictures of him with different shades for each, and other sets of pictures imply that both are green, and the same shade, to boot. Perhaps the former is merely an effect played on my mind by the angle from which he is viewed and the size of his nose.

jpholding

September 8th 2006, 05:10 PM

No worries, I'm sure you won't make the error again. :grin:

:bow: May the curse of Av'nen fall on me if I do, sirrah! :bow:

I recommend the "Free comics, but other stuff like plush toys or mugs or T shirts for support". Of course, that may have something to do with my not wanting to have to pay money to read Hearthstone. :whistle:

I know. It's hard for me to decide. There's a major precedent to prefer extra items as the support that I heard of lately: Howard Stern supposedly lost most of his audience because he's now on pay radio (satellite). Admittedly it isn't quite the same to ask someone to pay to hear him belch and be profane as it is to read the Hearthstone material (I hope! :lol:). On the other hand, if I only asked for 5 dollars a year, how hard would that be? It won't be high if I go that way. You may have noticed that my book was only sold at the conference for a coupla bucks. :wink:

What, you didn't go over to check it out and see if your neighbors might need any help in case of damage?

Wheh? :huh: You tryin' to get ME struck by lightning too? :lol:

But seriously, these days the people next door are almost never home. I think they travel for a living.

I look forward to finding out more. Will various tidbits regarding Eidolon's personal history and characteristics be appearing soon?

Hmm. Yes. In the crossover story, he'll have a convo with Sheila that will let some subtle stuff out, plus that scene from ST #3 in the Sinclair book will be explained, as it would have to be. The look on his face when he sees Annabelle should be priceless. I'm thinking the facade will crack pretty seriously.

His origins will be part of a mini-series connected to the wrap-up of the Cartel cycle. Probably this time next year.

My suspicion is no. He simply doesn't seem the sort who would prefer a lasting position of leadership.

Good. That matches with something I have in mind at about the same time as that mini-series.

I do have one question, though. What color are each of Eidolon's eyes?

I'm going for a dull sort of green. I know there's one pic where it's way off and I'll need to change that out when the revamp happens. I use prior pictures to get the colors for each character; the thing is you have to make sure (at least with GIMP) to reach back a ways for the colors or they'll slowly fade. IOW if I borrow my colors for page 6 from page 5, and the ones from 5 same from 4, and on back, the color will slowly get duller. I have to remember to keep page 1 (whatever the earliest page a character is on) as my source.

Perhaps the former is merely an effect played on my mind by the angle from which he is viewed and the size of his nose.

The Av'nen schnozz does tend to largeness. :lol:

Just redid this item from RP #1. Hopefully I can have the revamp of that up in a coupla weeks.

Teallaura

September 8th 2006, 05:27 PM

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4012.html

4 1/2 more pages....

I *am* surprised no one thought of this as why Shriker stayed in his cell. :ahem:

I'm hoping Eidolon's explanation ties it all together properly.

:hrm: Actually, I'd thought it was obvious.... I rarely comment on the blatantly obvious - well, unless it's funny.... :teeth:

:shrug:

Leonhard

September 8th 2006, 07:20 PM

I have no idea what you just said so I will present you with absolution. :solly:

Just showing of my new vocabulary, that first one VSEPR is actually simple enough to teach to an elementary school pubil.

Much as why she doesn't care about Hornacek's red eyes. It's stuborrness and arrogance, really, that makes her blind to these things.

Figures, its a common condition amongst those who consider themselves more learned or wise than they truly are. Btw on shriketoon3054 Tyra asks Brom "Where's THAT from?" What was she referring to? A tatoo? His well developed biceps?

And that is also a Tilkrig personality flaw...look for a telling line about this from Eidolon soon, when he and Tyra face off. Keep in mind what the intro material says about them being more inclined to follow than lead. So what happens when they DO assume a leadership position? Disaster, usually. (Von Lucre...hmm.)

Sounds basicly like stereotypical scientists/engineers to me, and thats cool cuz it fits me like a glove and its why I love tilkriegs, Beamer especially, he reminds me alot of myself (I was an atheist too you know!).

Question for thought: Do you think Beamer would want to lead the Range Patrol if it were offered to him?

Uh... No, I guess he wouldn't by himself ever assume command of that team unless it was really needed of him. He lacks the will power and drive a leader must have, plus its hard to be a leader if your less than 2 feet tall. Beamer also has a history of being under command of others, so it would be a very awkward situation for him to hand out orders. He did do it a little, when he lead the sanslorians to safety, but that was more as an advisor than a leader.

I am happy if it makes sense. Trying to make sure there were no loose ends to his explanation was the hardest part of this story.

So far no holes, though you have to keep your tounge in check if your ever gonna work with timetravel.

I recommend the "Free comics, but other stuff like plush toys or mugs or T shirts for support". Of course, that may have something to do with my not wanting to have to pay money to read Hearthstone.

I know. It's hard for me to decide. There's a major precedent to prefer extra items as the support that I heard of lately: Howard Stern supposedly lost most of his audience because he's now on pay radio (satellite). Admittedly it isn't quite the same to ask someone to pay to hear him belch and be profane as it is to read the Hearthstone material (I hope! ). On the other hand, if I only asked for 5 dollars a year, how hard would that be? It won't be high if I go that way. You may have noticed that my book was only sold at the conference for a coupla bucks.

You could also make short comics, that didn't have much if anything to do with the main plot and only make that accessible to paying readers. Like ten panel short stories "Top ten problems with cryonic abillities", "Eidolon order a whooper", etc...

A monthly bonus pic is also very attractive, I know thewotch (www.thewotch.com) has a had succes with that, again only accessible to readers who pay.

jpholding

September 8th 2006, 08:44 PM

Btw on shriketoon3054 Tyra asks Brom "Where's THAT from?" What was she referring to? A tatoo? His well developed biceps?

The saying about Tilkrig sitting on Prycene shoulders.

Uh... No, I guess he wouldn't by himself ever assume command of that team unless it was really needed of him. He lacks the will power and drive a leader must have, plus its hard to be a leader if your less than 2 feet tall.

He could stand on Bimf like Master and Blaster. :lol:

Seriously, though. That fits because I *do* have a place someday near the end of the Cartel cycle where he has a choice to take command for a bit but defers to Charlock since he's available.

So far no holes, though you have to keep your tounge in check if your ever gonna work with timetravel.

You have no idea just how much I'm holding back. :wink: Thank goodness I only have to do so for a year or so more.

You could also make short comics, that didn't have much if anything to do with the main plot and only make that accessible to paying readers.

Odd you should suggest that, I had thought to do that not with Hearthstone characters but with a revived Time Turkey and some other ideas I had. Alteranatively, the Cartel cycle could be free while later cycles (Forces of Nature, Breaking of the Gates, the eschatological storyline, Karu'shi Av'nen) could be subscriber only. So many options!

A monthly bonus pic is also very attractive, I know thewotch (www.thewotch.com) has a had succes with that, again only accessible to readers who pay.

OK, I bookmarked that. Yeesh. The art is so, er, primitive!? I'm going to see what my animator friend thinks of it.

Good night, all.

Spheniscine

September 8th 2006, 09:37 PM

I'm going for a dull sort of green. I know there's one pic where it's way off and I'll need to change that out when the revamp happens. I use prior pictures to get the colors for each character; the thing is you have to make sure (at least with GIMP) to reach back a ways for the colors or they'll slowly fade. IOW if I borrow my colors for page 6 from page 5, and the ones from 5 same from 4, and on back, the color will slowly get duller. I have to remember to keep page 1 (whatever the earliest page a character is on) as my source.
It's a side effect of JPG compression. One way to get around it is to use the PNG file format as your source, and only convert to JPG before uploading.

sc_q_jayce

September 9th 2006, 07:17 AM

:doh: My mind completely left out the fact that Brom was obedient to the covenant, but hey gimme a break, for the past few days I've been losing alot of sleep learning new names, concepts and theories like, VSEPR valence shell electron pair repulsion theory, LCAO linear atomic orbital combinations, and all of the weird consequences of the Shrödinger equation. On top of that, linear algebra is a churn to learn. Of course, I enjoy studying it, but don't expect me to be very active, or very bright these next few weeks.

Btw, why didn't Tyra foresee that he could use his enourmous strength to chrush his cell? Did she just assume that since he gave up he was outbeaten? She sure aint bright for a tilkrieg. Oh, and shame on her for exploiting gullible Brom like that.

I must admit this was a good update, the look of Tyra as she trembled before Shriker was awesome and the dialogue between Eidolon and Shriker was cool too.
Pssh. You should be BRIGHTER from learning these things. Besides, you still haven't gotten to Group theory and my favorite, Molecular Orbital Theory derived!

Anyway, there are times that VSEPR is wrong, such as in Li2O, Re(CN)83-, etc. but we'll leave that for another day. That's what you get for throwing random words out for no reason! :rasberry:

JP, might I suggest that while subscriptions may work, I would personally prefer a donation system. If you do end up doing something like that, I do hope you make your navigation system intra-comics Better! Getting to the latest page is like suicide, at this moment. Definitely an archives is good. Also good is the option of "First" and "Latest" for each chapter, so that people can quickly go to the desired beginning or latest page. Finally, a link to take us back to the main page while in the comic is nice, too.

It would also be great to see you doing some shading on your characters and backdrops other than on artificial hurricane/typhoon/wind/things...! Yeah! Definitely getting there.

Well done! :thumb:

Leonhard

September 9th 2006, 07:51 AM

The saying about Tilkrig sitting on Prycene shoulders.

Heh, I thought she was pointing at something asking what it was and then Brom explained, but this makes much more sense.

Odd you should suggest that, I had thought to do that not with Hearthstone characters but with a revived Time Turkey and some other ideas I had. Alteranatively, the Cartel cycle could be free while later cycles (Forces of Nature, Breaking of the Gates, the eschatological storyline, Karu'shi Av'nen) could be subscriber only. So many options!

I don't as long as it won't cost too much, I'm just a poor student.

OK, I bookmarked that. Yeesh. The art is so, er, primitive!? I'm going to see what my animator friend thinks of it.

Its certainly not as good as yours, but the author makes interesting stories and it has an interesting plot. Its funny you should mention its quality, its number 13 it used to be on topwebcomics (www.topwebcomics.com), btw check out number 3 (http://www.girlgeniusonline.com/) .

Pssh. You should be BRIGHTER from learning these things.

I am, but just exhausted, not by these things though, they where pretty easy. Its more the whole moving out on my own, learning the pace and such.

That's what you get for throwing random words out for no reason!

Aww, can't I just be a little silly now and then, pwety pwease...

Teallaura

September 9th 2006, 08:23 AM

Chemistry is evil.... :hmph:

Wish I had understood it... :sad:

Leonhard

September 9th 2006, 09:11 AM

Chemistry is evil.... :hmph:

Meh, chemistry (atleast organic chemistry) is just a huge collection of many simple rules, its learning all of the pitfalls and exceptions thats hard.

Teallaura

September 9th 2006, 09:33 AM

Ya know, that wasn't my problem. I could never get the concept of balancing an equation - just never understood it, so I could never do it (yeah, I'm one of those. Gotta get the concept or the rule dribbles out the other ear). Having a HS chem teacher who had to get factor-label explained to her by the algebra teacher (yes, she left class to do this) probably didn't help... :uneasy:

If you can't balance an equation, chemistry is pretty much out for you... :frown:

Now, algebra was easy! Trig was the toughie. :yes:

jpholding

September 9th 2006, 11:01 AM

Anyway, there are times that VSEPR is wrong, such as in Li2O, Re(CN)83-, etc. but we'll leave that for another day.

I'm not sure whether we should wash your mouth out with soap or not. :glare:

JP, might I suggest that while subscriptions may work, I would personally prefer a donation system. If you do end up doing something like that, I do hope you make your navigation system intra-comics Better!

My one idea is to break the things into chapters, so it would be kind of like navigating a DVD, and put links to each chapter on each page.

Getting to the latest page is like suicide, at this moment.

Um, you did notice that there are links to the latest page each time I update, right?

It would also be great to see you doing some shading on your characters and backdrops other than on artificial hurricane/typhoon/wind/things...! Yeah! Definitely getting there.

I did that for the original RP #1. I have to warn you that that's a lot more work. You have a choice between more shading like that or more frequent updates. Or giving me an excuse for spending more time on it by saying subscriptions are a good idea. :wink:

Thank you even so for the compliments. In truth I'd rather have it appreciated than have it be a moneymaker.

jpholding

September 9th 2006, 11:08 AM

I don't as long as it won't cost too much, I'm just a poor student.

So was I...once. :teeth:

Its certainly not as good as yours, but the author makes interesting stories and it has an interesting plot. Its funny you should mention its quality, its number 13 it used to be on topwebcomics (www.topwebcomics.com), btw check out number 3 (http://www.girlgeniusonline.com/) .

Somehow that makes me feel better about Hearthstone's chances.

No word yet from my friend on what he thinks of it.

Leonhard

September 9th 2006, 01:33 PM

So was I...once. :teeth:

Somehow that makes me feel better about Hearthstone's chances.

No word yet from my friend on what he thinks of it.
just found out that its actually still on topwebcomics (http://www.topwebcomics.com), only its number 18.

September 10th 2006, 06:01 PM

:bow: May the curse of Av'nen fall on me if I do, sirrah! :bow:

That's more like it. :smug:

I know. It's hard for me to decide. There's a major precedent to prefer extra items as the support that I heard of lately: Howard Stern supposedly lost most of his audience because he's now on pay radio (satellite). Admittedly it isn't quite the same to ask someone to pay to hear him belch and be profane as it is to read the Hearthstone material (I hope! :lol:).

I think it safe to say that you couldn't produce lower-quality work than Stern's if you tried.

On the other hand, if I only asked for 5 dollars a year, how hard would that be? It won't be high if I go that way. You may have noticed that my book was only sold at the conference for a coupla bucks. :wink:

I suppose I could afford to toss in $5 per year. But how helpful would that be in paying for whatever it happens to be for which the money would go? And of course, with that, I'd definitely have to recommend that at least the Cartel cycle and maybe a few little tidbits here and there be left free for all, so as to get new readers acquainted with your style and let them see that it's worth the cash.

For example, this sounds like a pretty decent idea:

Odd you should suggest that, I had thought to do that not with Hearthstone characters but with a revived Time Turkey and some other ideas I had. Alteranatively, the Cartel cycle could be free while later cycles (Forces of Nature, Breaking of the Gates, the eschatological storyline, Karu'shi Av'nen) could be subscriber only. So many options!

:smile:

Wheh? :huh: You tryin' to get ME struck by lightning too? :lol:

Dan Barker bribed me to give it a shot. :shrug:

But seriously, these days the people next door are almost never home. I think they travel for a living.

I suppose that in that case, there wouldn't have likely been much you could have done. So you're off the hook for this one. :tongue:

Hmm. Yes. In the crossover story, he'll have a convo with Sheila that will let some subtle stuff out, plus that scene from ST #3 in the Sinclair book will be explained, as it would have to be. The look on his face when he sees Annabelle should be priceless. I'm thinking the facade will crack pretty seriously.

About time. :smile: I've been wondering about that Sinclair bit.

I also seem to have forgotten which story the crossover will be. RP#5/ST#6 is fuzzily attached to my memory, but I've probably switched the numbers around. How many stories do we have until we reach that?

His origins will be part of a mini-series connected to the wrap-up of the Cartel cycle. Probably this time next year.

A long ways off, but I suspect you'll keep us distracted from that issue with the numerous smaller mysteries you'll no doubt clarify in various stories until then.

I'm going for a dull sort of green. I know there's one pic where it's way off and I'll need to change that out when the revamp happens.

"One"? I can think of several. The best example would probably be the Shrike Team group shot (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketeam.jpg), where it looks pretty clear to me that Eidolon's left eye is gray. Granted, my vision isn't the best, but I have difficulty imagining that particular image as presently including a distinctly greenish hue.

Also, the in his [url=http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/eidolon.html]introduction (]picture of Eidolon[/url) appears to have a gray left eye peering out from over that notorious nose of his. I also think his left eye looks rather gray in shriketoon1-17 (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon1/shriketoon1-17.html).

Those shots, primarily, were what originally had me thinking that Eidolon's eyes were meant to be different colors. But I became confused when I realized that other pictures, such as the Karu'shi Av'nen group picture (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/karushiavnen.jpg), appear to portray Eidolon with his right eye as the gray one.

Eidolon's eye also strikes me as oddly grayish in shriketoon1-26 (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon1/shriketoon1-26.html) (the left in some panels, the right in others). The same goes for his left eye in shriketoon1-27 (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon1/shriketoon1-27.html), second panel. And in the fourth panel, it looks like part of each eye is green, and the rest is gray.

Furthermore, a very close look at shriketoon4015 indicates that what is visible of Eidolon's left eye in the first panel is, in fact, gray rather than green. I've magnified it a great deal to get a better view, and it's roughly the same shade as his skin. I suspect that applies equally to the less visible eye of Eidolon in a number of the other panels there.

Of course, alternately, the "gray" eye in several of these instances may, in fact, simply be a notably duller green than the other. Either way, they don't match, and neither set compares to the vividness of his eyes in pictures like this one (http://www.tektoonics.com/etc/eid2.jpg).

This may be the only Hearthstone inconsistency found to date. :rasberry:

I use prior pictures to get the colors for each character; the thing is you have to make sure (at least with GIMP) to reach back a ways for the colors or they'll slowly fade. IOW if I borrow my colors for page 6 from page 5, and the ones from 5 same from 4, and on back, the color will slowly get duller. I have to remember to keep page 1 (whatever the earliest page a character is on) as my source.

That technique might explain it. I envisioned it as more dealing with the six-digit hex codes often used to designate particular shades of color. For example, selecting a pixel from the right eye of Eidolon in the "Little Red Eiding Hood" picture you drew for me, I'm coming up with 6F7B6F as the color code. But in pictures such as this miscellaneous art of Ediolon (http://www.tektoonics.com/etc/eid2.jpg), I find a distinctly different color designated as 51B67C. I happen to like the way Eidolon looks with more vividly green eyes, so I suppose I have a preference for that picture.

And then we've got contrasts like the aforementioned shriketoon1-17 (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon1/shriketoon1-17.html), where I get 82938D from a pixel in the left eye and 60AA77 from one of the duller ones in his right eye.

Hey look, I can be bothersome about issues other than broken links. :hehe:

The Av'nen schnozz does tend to largeness. :lol:

I also note that Eidolon's nose seems to be above average for the Av'nen with regards to size, judging by the comparative sizes displayed among the Av'nen in the Karu'shi Av'nen group picture (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/karushiavnen.jpg).

Just redid this item from RP #1. Hopefully I can have the revamp of that up in a coupla weeks.

Looks great. :thumb:

sc_q_jayce

September 10th 2006, 08:52 PM

I'm not sure whether we should wash your mouth out with soap or not. :glare::teeth:Clean as can be!

My one idea is to break the things into chapters, so it would be kind of like navigating a DVD, and put links to each chapter on each page.Hm. I'll have to see it to see how it works.

Um, you did notice that there are links to the latest page each time I update, right? Yes, I do notice these things, but I'm talking aside from that. As in, being able to jump back to the latest page while browsing the comics. But perhaps that requires more advanced webpage construction? :teeth:

I did that for the original RP #1. I have to warn you that that's a lot more work. You have a choice between more shading like that or more frequent updates. Or giving me an excuse for spending more time on it by saying subscriptions are a good idea. :wink: Get someone to ink for you! :teeth: Still clean. :)

Thank you even so for the compliments. In truth I'd rather have it appreciated than have it be a moneymaker.
Yeah! Keep it up. :)

jpholding

September 11th 2006, 10:03 AM

Yo there everyone!

The inks for ST #4 are done. Just short of halfway done on the colors.

I think I'll wait until Thursday for the next update...so it can be more pages than just 2.

I suppose I could afford to toss in $5 per year. But how helpful would that be in paying for whatever it happens to be for which the money would go?

If I get enough subscribers, very helpful. In fact, if I get enough, I can devote more time to it and produce more material, so it becomes like a part time job. See what I mean?

For example, this sounds like a pretty decent idea:

OK, glad for the feedback.

Dan Barker bribed me to give it a shot. :shrug:

Better watch that. I'll bet the check is still bouncing.

I suppose that in that case, there wouldn't have likely been much you could have done. So you're off the hook for this one. :tongue:

I was gonna ask how they were after the earthquake too, but their house was gone. :lol:

I also seem to have forgotten which story the crossover will be. RP#5/ST#6 is fuzzily attached to my memory, but I've probably switched the numbers around.

You have. It's ST#5/RP #6.

RP #5 will be where we get the deal between Sheila and Beamer resolved, paving the way for Jelica. If I work this out right I can coordinate the full revamp of the site and the start of the crossover story with the site's 1st anniversary on Nov. 30th.

Here's an idea...perks to subscribe early, before certain things are put on password only. Not sure what perks, but I'm sure I can think of some.

A long ways off, but I suspect you'll keep us distracted from that issue with the numerous smaller mysteries you'll no doubt clarify in various stories until then.

You have no idea. :wink:

"One"? I can think of several. The best example would probably be the Shrike Team group shot (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketeam.jpg), where it looks pretty clear to me that Eidolon's left eye is gray.

Mmmm...I see green in all of those. And my vision is 20/10, buddy. :smug: That means I can see a tick smile from a mile away. :hehe: :rasberry:

Seriously....admittedly the compression factor probably does cause some coloration inconsistencies across stories. But that's something I can't do anything about without either a lot of extra work or better software than GIMP.

Hey look, I can be bothersome about issues other than broken links. :hehe:

I plan to fix a mess of 'em today, so how's your life after that? :wink:

Hm. I'll have to see it to see how it works.

Is there a web comic that uses the model you have in mind?

As in, being able to jump back to the latest page while browsing the comics. But perhaps that requires more advanced webpage construction?

More typing, anyway. Lots more, especially if I update regularly. Unless I use templates, maybe, which yeah, I don't know how to do.

Get someone to ink for you! Still clean. :)

How do I pay them? Or did you have in mind some Eidolon mind-persuasion techniques? :lol:

sc_q_jayce

September 11th 2006, 01:15 PM

Coercion is nice. Just get your dog to do it.

I'll organize a list of models after I do my homework. :)

jpholding

September 11th 2006, 02:24 PM

Coercion is nice. Just get your dog to do it.

:glare:

You realize Toby's a TOY POODLE, correct?

All right, so maybe he can knock people over with his bad breath, but...

I'll organize a list of models after I do my homework. :)

That's cool, thanks. I was planning a bit of a survey of such sites at some point anyway.

One other idea was to do art exchanges with some of them and offer to trade promos. As high ranked as Tekton is traffic wise, that could be of some use.

September 11th 2006, 08:13 PM

Yo there everyone!

The inks for ST #4 are done. Just short of halfway done on the colors.

I think I'll wait until Thursday for the next update...so it can be more pages than just 2.

That sounds fair.

If I get enough subscribers, very helpful. In fact, if I get enough, I can devote more time to it and produce more material, so it becomes like a part time job. See what I mean?

More material is always good. Would you have the time to spare for such an undertaking without having to cut back on the time spent working on apologetics or simply enjoying life?

OK, glad for the feedback.

No problem, JP.

Better watch that. I'll bet the check is still bouncing.

I should've insisted on cash. :sad:

I was gonna ask how they were after the earthquake too, but their house was gone. :lol:

That'll make the question a bit hard to ask, yes. :tongue:

You have. It's ST#5/RP #6.

RP #5 will be where we get the deal between Sheila and Beamer resolved, paving the way for Jelica. If I work this out right I can coordinate the full revamp of the site and the start of the crossover story with the site's 1st anniversary on Nov. 30th.

Sounds good. :woohoo: Can't believe it's been nearly a year already, though.

Here's an idea...perks to subscribe early, before certain things are put on password only. Not sure what perks, but I'm sure I can think of some.

You could always try your hand at doing toons of the subscribers. From what I've seen with your drawings of various skeptics and Johnny Nazarene, you're pretty good with that. I'd say that it'd even be worth a boosted subscription price, maybe $10. :wink:

You have no idea. :wink:

Always with the teasing, JP. :tongue:

Mmmm...I see green in all of those.

All of them? That's got to be hyperbole. I magnified a few to examine the individual pixels, and if you call that green, I may recommend tearing yourself from the computer screen long enough to glance at your lawn. :rasberry:

And my vision is 20/10, buddy. :smug:

Care to trade?

That means I can see a tick smile from a mile away. :hehe: :rasberry:

Their vision must not be as good as yours then. If they could see ya, that'd wipe the smiles right off their little faces. :rasberry:

Seriously....admittedly the compression factor probably does cause some coloration inconsistencies across stories. But that's something I can't do anything about without either a lot of extra work or better software than GIMP.

Color consistency for those details wouldn't really be worth either the decrease in productivity or the cost of new software, in my opinion. So I guess we fans can just deal with Eidolon's mysterious eyes. :wink:

I plan to fix a mess of 'em today, so how's your life after that? :wink:

Well, I could always start attacking all of the ordinary, mundane typos littering the site. :grin:

:glare:

You realize Toby's a TOY POODLE, correct?

All right, so maybe he can knock people over with his bad breath, but...

Toby's a genius pooch, I'm sure he could figure out a way.

jpholding

September 11th 2006, 09:38 PM

More material is always good. Would you have the time to spare for such an undertaking without having to cut back on the time spent working on apologetics or simply enjoying life?

Not really. And to me the toons are enjoyable to do.

Can't believe it's been nearly a year already, though.

I can't quite myself, especially when I see what RP #1 used to look like.

You could always try your hand at doing toons of the subscribers.

That was an idea as well -- custom avatars for sale with a subscription. But not everyone is a forum person, so....

Care to trade?

Mmmmmmmm....no. :rasberry: I like seeing individual leaves on trees from across the neighborhood.

See ya tomorrow...I wanna do one more page of colors before I go to bed...

September 11th 2006, 09:48 PM

Not really. And to me the toons are enjoyable to do.

If they're half as fun to create as they are to read, I can definitely see why you might want to have the monetary means to justify spending more time on them. :smile:

I can't quite myself, especially when I see what RP #1 used to look like.

Your style has certainly improved a bit since then, now that the rust has come off. Although even when it came to the original RP #1, I was fairly impressed.

That was an idea as well -- custom avatars for sale with a subscription. But not everyone is a forum person, so....

I didn't say anything about avatars. :tongue: I was thinking more along the lines of maybe a drawing half the size of a sheet of paper. Colored, preferably (perhaps you could charge extra for that). I wouldn't mind having one of those, and that together with all the added Hearthstone bits would be well worth the mere $5 or $10 per year I might have to shell out for it. I think $15 would be pushing it a bit, although if that happened to be the price you selected, odds are I'd pay it. Can't speak for the other Hearthstone addicts, though.

Mmmmmmmm....no. :rasberry: I like seeing individual leaves on trees from across the neighborhood.

Drat. With your vision, maybe for once I could make out the lettering on the street signs from more than four car lengths away. :rasberry:

See ya tomorrow...I wanna do one more page of colors before I go to bed...

I might as well log off pretty soon too, seeing as how I've put off tonight's homework for long enough. Enjoy your coloring.

jpholding

September 12th 2006, 11:22 AM

If they're half as fun to create as they are to read, I can definitely see why you might want to have the monetary means to justify spending more time on them. :smile:

They're ten times the fun to create. In a sense, I get an idea how God feels about His creation.

I was thinking more along the lines of maybe a drawing half the size of a sheet of paper. Colored, preferably (perhaps you could charge extra for that).

Oh, I see. Some people offer wallpapers and stuff like that, is that what you mean?

I wouldn't mind having one of those, and that together with all the added Hearthstone bits would be well worth the mere $5 or $10 per year I might have to shell out for it. I think $15 would be pushing it a bit, although if that happened to be the price you selected, odds are I'd pay it.

I'll stick with the Reaganomics model....low fee, lots of subscribers would be better. I'm not greedy, despite what jimbo thinks when his brain works now and then. :lol:

Drat. With your vision, maybe for once I could make out the lettering on the street signs from more than four car lengths away.

Around here they have street signs that are themselves lights, and they hang from the traffic signal posts/wires.

The next update will feature some comedy relief...everyone's laughing but Tyra. :hehe:

jpholding

September 12th 2006, 04:05 PM

Got a bunch done while I was loading Classics files....pick it up 1/3 of the way down...

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4016.html

September 12th 2006, 04:46 PM

They're ten times the fun to create. In a sense, I get an idea how God feels about His creation.

Creativity is often a thrilling experience. Seeing a world take form before your eyes... God's been good to permit us the ability to get a sense for what that's like through our imagination.

Oh, I see. Some people offer wallpapers and stuff like that, is that what you mean?

Um, sure, I guess you can go with that. :tongue: I was thinking of simply a 5.5" x 8.5" sheet of paper with a drawing on it. You could either actually mail the physical sheet, or you could let them download the image digitally. Sort of like the avatars, particularly the one you recently did for Johnny N., but a larger size. Make some sort of sense?

I'll stick with the Reaganomics model....low fee, lots of subscribers would be better. I'm not greedy, despite what jimbo thinks when his brain works now and then. :lol:

His brain has function every once in a while?

Around here they have street signs that are themselves lights, and they hang from the traffic signal posts/wires.

Now see, that's the sort of thing we need more around here.

Got a bunch done while I was loading Classics files....pick it up 1/3 of the way down...

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4016.html

Lookin' good. :smile: I finally get to see the beginning of that mention you had made of Brom learning a bit of "white magic", and as a bonus, we're preparing for quite a showdown. I must say, I always love seeing Eidolon in combat.

ShadowLands

September 12th 2006, 04:52 PM

Got a bunch done while I was loading Classics files....pick it up 1/3 of the way down...

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4016.html
When's dessert over? =D

Teallaura

September 12th 2006, 04:53 PM

jbcreation[/i]]

If they're half as fun to create as they are to read, I can definitely see why you might want to have the monetary means to justify spending more time on them. :smile:

They're ten times the fun to create. In a sense, I get an idea how God feels about His creation.

I've found that in my writing as well, JP. :yes: It may give some limited insight into how God might see His creation, I think. (Emphasis on limited)

jpholding

September 13th 2006, 11:00 AM

Um, sure, I guess you can go with that. :tongue: I was thinking of simply a 5.5" x 8.5" sheet of paper with a drawing on it.

Oh! OK.

His brain has function every once in a while?

At the very LEAST when he uses the restroom. :hehe:

I finally get to see the beginning of that mention you had made of Brom learning a bit of "white magic", and as a bonus, we're preparing for quite a showdown. I must say, I always love seeing Eidolon in combat.

The next few pages will be your cup of tea, then. The thing with Gen'a'too won't take too long....but Tyra has to stick her nose in too before it will be all done.

When's dessert over? =D

I'm going to say Friday. Just a couple more pages to the next logical break point.

September 13th 2006, 02:05 PM

Oh! OK.

Phew, concept communicated. :smile: So do you think the idea would at least be workable?

At the very LEAST when he uses the restroom. :hehe:

:lol:

The next few pages will be your cup of tea, then. The thing with Gen'a'too won't take too long....but Tyra has to stick her nose in too before it will be all done.

:woohoo: I'm ready to see some action. And of course Tyra would have to get involved somehow. She doesn't strike me as the sort of person who would be able to (or willing to) resist meddling.

When's dessert over? =D

I'm going to say Friday.

You can go after dessert almost as much so as you can for pierogies, then. :rasberry:

jpholding

September 13th 2006, 02:25 PM

Phew, concept communicated. :smile: So do you think the idea would at least be workable?

Certainly! I think some online artists even do that now.

You can go after dessert almost as much so as you can for pierogies, then. :rasberry:

Whaddya expect? I don't get them more than once every two years. But don't forget the buffalo wings, too. The spicier the better. In fact, I need to eat lunch now and I'm having chili I'll add some Endorphin Rush sauce to. I shoulda brought it...with a Worcestshire sauce label. And offered everyone some. :hehe:

September 13th 2006, 02:37 PM

Certainly! I think some online artists even do that now.

Huzzah! Excellent, so after I get around to sending in the subscription money, I'll be able to PM you a picture and get a toon in return, correct?

Whaddya expect? I don't get them more than once every two years.

Well now whose fault is that? :tongue: There's got to be some place in your home town where you can get pierogies whenever you feel like it, money permitting.

But don't forget the buffalo wings, too.

Yeah, you wolfed down quite a few of those as well, as I recall. :rasberry:

The spicier the better.

I'll affirm the opposite, thanks. Unlike you, I'm no spice fanatic.

In fact, I need to eat lunch now and I'm having chili I'll add some Endorphin Rush sauce to. I shoulda brought it...with a Worcestshire sauce label. And offered everyone some. :hehe:

:lol: You're a cruel man, JP. Good thing I don't use any of those sorts of sauces, no way I would've made it through Endorphin Rush.

Enjoy your chili.

jpholding

September 13th 2006, 04:18 PM

Huzzah! Excellent, so after I get around to sending in the subscription money, I'll be able to PM you a picture and get a toon in return, correct?

Correct. :thumb: Just remember I don't do humans well.

There's got to be some place in your home town where you can get pierogies whenever you feel like it, money permitting.

Not the good stuff like is produced on a local level there. Here it is more likely to come out of the frozen section of the supermarket first.

Enjoy your chili.

Thanks. It was awesome! Added some shredded mozarella and asiago to the top, too. :hehe:

See ya'll tomorrow!

September 13th 2006, 06:26 PM

Correct. :thumb: Just remember I don't do humans well.

You do them better than you think. Trust me. :smile: I'm looking forward to it. Now I just have to sign up for PayPal.

Not the good stuff like is produced on a local level there. Here it is more likely to come out of the frozen section of the supermarket first.

What, you're telling me that down there you can't even get a decent pierogie in a nice restaurant? :glare: What's this world coming to?

Thanks. It was awesome! Added some shredded mozarella and asiago to the top, too. :hehe:

Can't go wrong with mozzarella. :hehe:

See ya'll tomorrow!

See ya then, JP. Hope you have a nice day.

jpholding

September 14th 2006, 07:24 PM

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4020.html

Two more pages.

See ya tomorrow!

September 14th 2006, 08:57 PM

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4020.html

Two more pages.

See ya tomorrow!

:hehe: Good work, JP. Clever tactic you had Brom and Eidolon use in that one. Although Eidolon's phrasing seemed rather... I'm not really sure how to describe it. Perhaps a bit more stilted than what I'm used to from him, which I generally consider more "epic" than "stilted". Eh, or maybe I'm just in the mood to complain about something, and I latched onto it. :rasberry: Either way, I look forward to next week to find out what happens next.

jpholding

September 15th 2006, 10:49 AM

:hehe: Good work, JP. Clever tactic you had Brom and Eidolon use in that one. Although Eidolon's phrasing seemed rather... I'm not really sure how to describe it. Perhaps a bit more stilted than what I'm used to from him, which I generally consider more "epic" than "stilted". Eh, or maybe I'm just in the mood to complain about something, and I latched onto it.

:hehe: Eh, the poor guy's probably seen so many changes in grammar and expression and has learned so many languages over 40,000 years that he's lucky to be coherent. Yeah, he sure misses their medieval era! :lol:

I think I'll shoot for a longer update late next week on this next part....there's a couple of logical break points, but it might be nicer to get this last confrontation scene done all at once.

September 15th 2006, 12:55 PM

:hehe: Eh, the poor guy's probably seen so many changes in grammar and expression and has learned so many languages over 40,000 years

I see you're quite adept at weaving excuses. :tongue: I'd love to see you actually weave that one into one of the future comics somewhere.

that he's lucky to be coherent.

Yeah, especially considering the artist... :haha:

Yeah, he sure misses their medieval era! :lol:

Well who wouldn't? :rasberry:

I think I'll shoot for a longer update late next week on this next part....there's a couple of logical break points, but it might be nicer to get this last confrontation scene done all at once.

I could definitely go for such a larger block this time. Good idea.

jpholding

September 15th 2006, 12:58 PM

I see you're quite adept at weaving excuses. :tongue: I'd love to see you actually weave that one into one of the future comics somewhere.

Wheh! I already did make that part of his profile -- that whole thing in ST #1 in the park was an example of how he has problems adjusting to things. There'll be another example shortly....wait'll you see this bit where he drives one of them steam vehicles. :nc:

September 15th 2006, 01:12 PM

Wheh!

"Wheh"? :tongue:

I already did make that part of his profile -- that whole thing in ST #1 in the park was an example of how he has problems adjusting to things.

Oh, no quarrel with that, I merely hadn't given an extensive amount of thought to how language would have changed on Hearthstone over so many revolutions. I'm curious as to whether Eidolon will occasionally have difficulty understanding modern language or will use even more blatantly archaic language than he's already been portrayed as speaking.

There'll be another example shortly....wait'll you see this bit where he drives one of them steam vehicles. :nc:

:lmbo: Now that I can hardly wait to see!

Little Shepherd

September 15th 2006, 01:19 PM

I'm kind of mixed on this installment.

Brom got the seed out, but I assume she swallows it again at some point because she has to get her superpowers somehow.

And on that matter, Brom's seed seems to have digested pretty fast. And some time's passed since Felicity swallowed her seed, so why wouldn't it be digested by now too? Does this mean that Brom's seed really isn't digested either and could possibly be knocked out of him?

Without some sort of explanation for why her seed wouldn't be digested, this segment seems kind of inconsistent with what's already been presented.

jpholding

September 15th 2006, 01:33 PM

"Wheh"? :tongue:

Yeh! Wheh! :rasberry:

I'm curious as to whether Eidolon will occasionally have difficulty understanding modern language or will use even more blatantly archaic language than he's already been portrayed as speaking.

I imagine he does in many cases; when it comes to dealing with someone like Brom (whose highest level of education is like our GED, which is not to say he's not reasonably intelligent even so), he'd probably balk at figures of speech that a sports star might use, for example. Inevitably though, such things slow a story down so I won't show it too often.

Brom got the seed out, but I assume she swallows it again at some point because she has to get her superpowers somehow.

She does. But not by swallowing the seed again. :wink: We'll let that mystery of "how" just lay there...it won't be long before it will be revealed...Shrike Team #6, precisely.

And on that matter, Brom's seed seems to have digested pretty fast.

Ah, but recall that he didn't merely eat a seed, but the WHOLE piece of fruit....remember? :smile:

And some time's passed since Felicity swallowed her seed, so why wouldn't it be digested by now too?

I actually looked into this some years back when I first put the Shrike Team plot together. Seeds often *are* indigestible. They may pass through the system or conceivably become "stuck" somewhere in the digestive tract....or in this case, Gen'a'too likely did his best to keep the thing in one place.

Does this mean that Brom's seed really isn't digested either and could possibly be knocked out of him?

Nope. It was the soft part of the fruit that did the job there. The change was made and it can't be reversed. I chose a seed as the instrument of Felicity's initial transformation precisely because, unlike the whole fruit, it had the possibility of not being digested and thus a reversal was possible.

But anyway, all of this is tied in to the nature of the selalgihi themselves....and ST #6 will contain some enormous revelations about them.

I think your question will make for a good discussion point in the "insider" feature for this one.

Little Shepherd

September 15th 2006, 02:32 PM

I think your question will make for a good discussion point in the "insider" feature for this one.
:joy: Glad to be of service! Now I'm really curious how Felicity gets her permanent superpowers. I know she was researching a cure for Brom, so as of now I assume the research will either go awry, or will lead to her choosing to induce such a transformation on herself because the world needs superheroes, and of course because Felicity likes Brom. :love: But if you recall, I once theorized that Brom was destined to have a "prophecy child" with Sheila Rangslinger. I theorized a lot in that post, and you revealed that I was right about something, but wouldn't tell me what exactly I was right about. :tongue: Anyway, I'm not sure which relationship I'm rooting for more at this point!

And the selalgihi . . . I have one idea since seeing it introduced. Until shown otherwise, I'm going to assume that the selalgihi fruit played an important role in Hearthstone's "fall" event, involving Eidolon himself I believe. That's enough of my theorizing and romanticizing for now.

jpholding

September 15th 2006, 03:28 PM

:hehe: Thanks, this is fun to rap about. I won't reveal details on any of this, but just so you know you won't have to wait long, here's when you'll know whether you're right or not on each of these:

Glad to be of service! Now I'm really curious how Felicity gets her permanent superpowers. I know she was researching a cure for Brom, so as of now I assume the research will either go awry, or will lead to her choosing to induce such a transformation on herself because the world needs superheroes,

ST #6, as noted above. I'll add that you're right about her choosing to induce the transformation the second time.

and of course because Felicity likes Brom. :love:

You'll like something to come in about two weeks. Then several things up through ST #7 will drive you up a wall where you'll also find Brom hanging. :hehe: If you think you're confused about which relationship to root for NOW....

I'll remind you of something since it isn't a secret but plainly out there....have you forgotten Tyk Jyn-Rayana? :wink:

And the selalgihi . . . I have one idea since seeing it introduced. Until shown otherwise, I'm going to assume that the selalgihi fruit played an important role in Hearthstone's "fall" event, involving Eidolon himself I believe.

Part answer in ST #6, part answer in what will be a roundoff mini-series to the Cartel crisis, not sure of the enumeration yet but it'll be up by early 2008.

Little Shepherd

September 15th 2006, 03:35 PM

....have you forgotten Tyk Jyn-Rayana? :wink:
Unless she's the evil Tilkrig lady, then yes. :blush:

jpholding

September 15th 2006, 04:34 PM

Unless she's the evil Tilkrig lady, then yes. :blush:

Uh oh....

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/hearthstone.html

Under the Shrike Team profile...

Tyk Jyn-Rayana. The other female character's name, which I have left "unrendered," means essentially "Bearer of the Moldable Light". Her powers are along the lines of Green Lantern, and as the real-life Char'lett Paracene, she's also a past master of the arts of espionage. She and Brom will definitely have something going on toghether....but he'll have to meet her first, and it will be at least 5 Annals before I get her in the picture...

Now your world is completely upside down. :hehe:

See ya'll later...

September 17th 2006, 05:15 PM

I imagine he does in many cases; when it comes to dealing with someone like Brom (whose highest level of education is like our GED, which is not to say he's not reasonably intelligent even so), he'd probably balk at figures of speech that a sports star might use, for example.

I can sympathize. :rasberry:

But anyway, it's time for...

Assorted Hearthstone-Related Questions:

1) In The Social World of Hearthstone (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/hearthsocial.html), there's a section that reads as follows:

There are various other faiths on Hearthstone, but most take the form of what would be called paganism, albeit one rather sanitized compared to what we might think of (Aztecs cutting out hearts and such). The second most popular religion pledges loyalty to the deity Pasin, a rather kindly figure whose moral teachings are not dissimilar to the Covenant of M'kai's moral teachings. Others are more or less what we would call deists. Atheism is almost unknown.

So far, I've seen one passing reference to a religion other than the Covenant of M'kai and deism (and maybe atheism--I don't remember), and that was here (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4006.html). Are any storylines planned for the near or semi-near future that make the faith of Pasin a bit more central and evident?

2) If I (or anyone, of course) find assorted typos, spelling mistakes, etc., in the text of the comics, would you prefer to know about it, or would you rather remain blissfully unaware? :rasberry:

3) The red-box text in shrikentoon2073 (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon2/shriketoon2073.html) strikes me as being exceptionally blurry, even more so than is typical. No doubt you can somehow discern what it says with your superhuman vision (:tongue:), JP, but think of we who are bound by the restrictions of ordinary mortal eyes. Any chance that's on your list of parts to clean up? I've always been a bit curious as to exactly what's going on in those few panels.

Those are the only three I feel like tossing out for now, so if you'll excuse me, I have to go collect broken links with which to bother you. :hehe: Hope you're having a good weekend, JP.

Darth Executor

September 17th 2006, 05:21 PM

I can see the red box text without my glasses and my vision is pretty bad.

September 17th 2006, 06:22 PM

I can see the red box text without my glasses and my vision is pretty bad.

:huh: Maybe my computer's just destroying the image then, but even squinting with my glasses on, it looks less legible than some written text I've accidentally soaked with water on various occasions. I can guess at a few of the words, but barely.

Spheniscine

September 17th 2006, 08:46 PM

I can read it, but can imagine how it might be hard for some.

jpholding

September 18th 2006, 10:43 AM

But anyway, it's time for...

Assorted Hearthstone-Related Questions:

Well, at least you didn't say "Days of Our Lives." :lol:

Are any storylines planned for the near or semi-near future that make the faith of Pasin a bit more central and evident?

Not at present, but I'd say that the faith of Pasin is probably similar to Confucianism.

2) If I (or anyone, of course) find assorted typos, spelling mistakes, etc., in the text of the comics, would you prefer to know about it, or would you rather remain blissfully unaware? :rasberry:

You can tell me, though that and things like the red box will have to wait until I revamp the whole. Right now RP #1 is on the revamp plate and it needs the most changes. ST #1 will need far less, and so on. Collect 'em and post 'em.

I've always been a bit curious as to exactly what's going on in those few panels.

Gen'a'too is basically tempting Felicity into eating the seed to save herself from her fear and be able to fight off assailants in the future.

Hope you're having a good weekend, JP.

U2. :teeth: Back later...I have some forms to fill out.

September 18th 2006, 01:25 PM

Well, at least you didn't say "Days of Our Lives." :lol:

Like sands through the hourglass, so are the cycles as we await our next Hearthstone fix... :wink:

Not at present, but I'd say that the faith of Pasin is probably similar to Confucianism.

For some reason, I had an inkling that the faith of Pasin would be something along those lines. I do hope you change your mind and feature Pasinism more prominently sooner or later, though. I'm interested to know more about it. Do they have anything analogous to the Oracles of the Covenant, for example?

You can tell me, though that and things like the red box will have to wait until I revamp the whole. Right now RP #1 is on the revamp plate and it needs the most changes. ST #1 will need far less, and so on. Collect 'em and post 'em.

A new quest! :woohoo:

Gen'a'too is basically tempting Felicity into eating the seed to save herself from her fear and be able to fight off assailants in the future.

Ahh, so that's what he's saying. Any chance you might have time within the next couple of days to perhaps PM me the actual verbatim text of the red boxes? :tongue: I'm curious for the details.

U2. :teeth: Back later...I have some forms to fill out.

:hehe: Have fun with that.

jpholding

September 18th 2006, 01:40 PM

For some reason, I had an inkling that the faith of Pasin would be something along those lines. I do hope you change your mind and feature Pasinism more prominently sooner or later, though.

It remains possible. The Charlocks are followers of Pasin so there are two characters who could say something about it.

I'm interested to know more about it. Do they have anything analogous to the Oracles of the Covenant, for example?

I haven't decided, but in a literate society it's almost unthinkable that there would not be.

Ahh, so that's what he's saying. Any chance you might have time within the next couple of days to perhaps PM me the actual verbatim text of the red boxes? :tongue: I'm curious for the details.

Meh, I'll post it here in case anyone else needs it.

Panel 2: "The dreams can stop, Felicity. Do you want to be free? To be able to defend yourself?"

Panel 3: "It can happen, Felicity. Look."

Panel 4: "Yes." "The seed."

Panel 5: "Take it. And let power unimaginable become yours."

September 18th 2006, 08:27 PM

It remains possible. The Charlocks are followers of Pasin so there are two characters who could say something about it.

Really? Now there's something I really didn't expect. That could provide for some interesting scenarios, I'm sure. Would this be common knowledge among the populace of Nullabor? If so, how do the adherents of the Covenant of M'kai feel about having two devotees of Pasin in those positions? Are there any who particularly oppose it?

I haven't decided, but in a literate society it's almost unthinkable that there would not be.

Admit it, one of the reasons you haven't inserted much about the faith of Pasin yet is because you yourself don't have it all worked out to your satisfaction. :wink:

Meh, I'll post it here in case anyone else needs it.

Panel 2: "The dreams can stop, Felicity. Do you want to be free? To be able to defend yourself?"

Panel 3: "It can happen, Felicity. Look."

Panel 4: "Yes." "The seed."

Panel 5: "Take it. And let power unimaginable become yours."

Thanks, JP. :teeth:

jpholding

September 18th 2006, 10:15 PM

Really? Now there's something I really didn't expect. That could provide for some interesting scenarios, I'm sure.

The only sign of it so far is somewhere were Campion swore by Pasin's robe.

Would this be common knowledge among the populace of Nullabor?

Likely so.

If so, how do the adherents of the Covenant of M'kai feel about having two devotees of Pasin in those positions? Are there any who particularly oppose it?

I'd say no. As I did note in the intro material, it's got moral teachings not far from those of the Covenant, so there wouldn't be much in the way of cause for friction, and certainly not in a free republic like Nullabor.

Admit it, one of the reasons you haven't inserted much about the faith of Pasin yet is because you yourself don't have it all worked out to your satisfaction. :wink:

Nope. :rasberry: Had all this in mind, just ain't used it. In fact it was Hearthstone's secondary religion even back in the version of the Shrike Team story I did 10-15 years ago.

Thanks, JP. :teeth:

No prob. :thumb:

I expect to load up pages 22-24 tomorrow....Eidolon vs Tyra....

Hmmm...Godzilla vs Adam Ant? We'll see. :hehe:

sc_q_jayce

September 18th 2006, 10:22 PM

Go to sleep, JP. :rasberry:

September 18th 2006, 10:44 PM

The only sign of it so far is somewhere were Campion swore by Pasin's robe.

Hmm, I don't remember that scene. Looks like it's time for a hunt. :smile:

Likely so.

I'd say no. As I did note in the intro material, it's got moral teachings not far from those of the Covenant, so there wouldn't be much in the way of cause for friction, and certainly not in a free republic like Nullabor.

That's somewhat what I figured, but I wasn't sure if perhaps there were some fringe elements of radicals who wouldn't take kindly to even that sort of thing.

Nope. :rasberry: Had all this in mind, just ain't used it. In fact it was Hearthstone's secondary religion even back in the version of the Shrike Team story I did 10-15 years ago.

Oh, so that's why you weren't quite sure when I asked you a basic question about whether or not Pasinism (the term I've coined for the faith of Pasin, simply because "the faith of Pasin" is just too long and cumbersome to keep typing) has a sacred text? :hehe:

Alright, let me see how you do with these:

1) Does Pasinism have prophet-figures?
2) What central attributes do Pasinists ascribe to Pasin?
3) Is there any history of conflict between Pasinists and adherents of the Covenant?
4) Does Pasinism have a known founder?
5) Do Pasinists regard Pasin as a deity who acts in history or one whose actions are considered to have taken place in some heavenly realm distinct from the plane of existence in which the residents of Hearthstone dwell?
6) What doctrines of Pasinism most distinguish it from the Covenant?
7) Please produce three quotations from the sacred text of Pasinism. :tongue:

I expect to load up pages 22-24 tomorrow....Eidolon vs Tyra....

Hmmm...Godzilla vs Adam Ant? We'll see. :hehe:

I now have a reason to wake up in the morning. :rasberry: Besides, you know, that "college" thing.

Oh, and sc_q_jayce is right, it's past your bedtime, JP. :wink:

Spheniscine

September 20th 2006, 10:47 AM

My sister said that Eidolon should have used the fire seraph, and not the ice one. :lmbo:

One question about page 23, last panel: Does that mean that Eidolon will die after his mission is completed?

jpholding

September 20th 2006, 11:14 AM

I see the update was found. :lol:

Go to sleep, JP. :rasberry:

Aw :rasberry: to you. The Mrs. was up making some goodies for people at work, so why not?

That's somewhat what I figured, but I wasn't sure if perhaps there were some fringe elements of radicals who wouldn't take kindly to even that sort of thing.

Perhaps not in Nullabor just yet. There are radicals who object to interracial marriage in the Confederacy, so it isn't as though the psychology isn't there on Hearthstone. But with Nullabor still in its "frontier" stage, and the threat of the Cartel looming, it's my perception that such things would be overlooked for the time being.

Oh, so that's why you weren't quite sure when I asked you a basic question about whether or not Pasinism (the term I've coined for the faith of Pasin, simply because "the faith of Pasin" is just too long and cumbersome to keep typing) has a sacred text?

My answer there was based on the sociology of movements in pre-literate and literate socities. There's just no reason why a movement like Pasin's would not have sacred texts. :smile:

Alright, let me see how you do with these:

I'll wing some with probabilities, throw out ideas for others.

1) Does Pasinism have prophet-figures?

Yes. This would be a given for any religious movement.

2) What central attributes do Pasinists ascribe to Pasin?

Undecided beyond general moral goodness. In the prior incarnation of the Hearthstone tales he did have a concern for the poor.

3) Is there any history of conflict between Pasinists and adherents of the Covenant?

My initial idea is that there would be no military conflict based on what I have established about both. Ideological conflict seems like it would be likely. Perhaps I can pursue this back in their history in places like the Kar'u'shi Av'nen series.

4) Does Pasinism have a known founder?

Yes, that I am sure of.

5) Do Pasinists regard Pasin as a deity who acts in history or one whose actions are considered to have taken place in some heavenly realm distinct from the plane of existence in which the residents of Hearthstone dwell?

I worked this out as well before; he's regarded as a historical being who underwent apotheosis, so now he'd act from the heavenly realm.

6) What doctrines of Pasinism most distinguish it from the Covenant?

Undecided beyond the object of faith.

7) Please produce three quotations from the sacred text of Pasinism.

"Do not eat while sitting on a stool." :lol: Seriously, don't have any yet. I could probably rework some stuff from the Analects for much of it.

My sister said that Eidolon should have used the fire seraph, and not the ice one.

Followed by the BBQ sauce seraph, I guess? :hehe:

One question about page 23, last panel: Does that mean that Eidolon will die after his mission is completed?

More like, he's of the view that once the circle closes, the end of the age (resurrection) will have no impediments and the resurrection will occur (see his semi-sermon in ST #1). I'll tell you this much...he didn't get that from prophetic insight. He's very much wrong. And he's going to be very upset when he realizes that he deluded himself that way. It won't have been the first time he deluded himself either.

sc_q_jayce

September 21st 2006, 03:31 AM

Hooded Stranger? :eww:

jpholding

September 21st 2006, 10:03 AM

Hooded Stranger? :eww:

I considered "you weirdo in a cape" but hey....she's not exactly much for on the spot threats, ya know?

So what would you suggest, Cap'n Chopstick? :tongue:

I'm starting work on the new design for the site as a whole. I'll post a link to the new version of the front page when it is done. The next ST #4 update will be Tuesday....I think I'd like to add at least 5 more pages since we're getting close to the end.

{Tim}

September 21st 2006, 10:53 AM

Hey... Tyra looks kind of cute in some of those panels on the last page. :hehe:

Maybe it's just that it's the only time i haven't seen her with an evil glare on her face... :ahem:

jpholding

September 21st 2006, 11:57 AM

Hey... Tyra looks kind of cute in some of those panels on the last page. :hehe:

Maybe it's just that it's the only time i haven't seen her with an evil glare on her face... :ahem:

She'd probably have been married by now if she weren't such a cuss. :hehe:

September 21st 2006, 05:45 PM

Perhaps not in Nullabor just yet. There are radicals who object to interracial marriage in the Confederacy, so it isn't as though the psychology isn't there on Hearthstone. But with Nullabor still in its "frontier" stage, and the threat of the Cartel looming, it's my perception that such things would be overlooked for the time being.

Sounds reasonable. Nullabor is still in a situation where it can be ill-afforded to let such things interfere, save in the minds of perhaps the most unreasonable.

My answer there was based on the sociology of movements in pre-literate and literate socities. There's just no reason why a movement like Pasin's would not have sacred texts. :smile:

Any idea yet what they might be called, if anything?

Undecided beyond general moral goodness. In the prior incarnation of the Hearthstone tales he did have a concern for the poor.

There's a start, at least. Does Pasinism have any unique cosmogonical tales? And, if so, how might their theology relate that to the nature of Pasin?

My initial idea is that there would be no military conflict based on what I have established about both. Ideological conflict seems like it would be likely. Perhaps I can pursue this back in their history in places like the Kar'u'shi Av'nen series.

Hey, now that sounds like an interesting plot element. :smile:

Would either have had any history of military conflict with any of the other religious groups in Hearthstone's history?

Yes, that I am sure of.

In light of the next answer you gave, would that founder be the historical Pasin himself?

I worked this out as well before; he's regarded as a historical being who underwent apotheosis, so now he'd act from the heavenly realm.

Interesting. From which of Hearthstone's races was Pasin, and how do they consider him to have obtained his apotheosis?

Undecided beyond the object of faith.

Well then, get crackin'. :whip: Now we know something else you need to be contemplating.

"Do not eat while sitting on a stool." :lol: Seriously, don't have any yet. I could probably rework some stuff from the Analects for much of it.

That sounds like a fun project. For some of the bonus add-ons to entice subscribers, if you're feeling ambitious enough, you could actually try to write up the text of the Oracles and the Pasinist texts.

Followed by the BBQ sauce seraph, I guess? :hehe:

I'll give ya $10 to actually put the phrase "BBQ sauce seraph" into the text of one of your Hearthstone comics. :rasberry:

More like, he's of the view that once the circle closes, the end of the age (resurrection) will have no impediments and the resurrection will occur (see his semi-sermon in ST #1). I'll tell you this much...he didn't get that from prophetic insight. He's very much wrong. And he's going to be very upset when he realizes that he deluded himself that way. It won't have been the first time he deluded himself either.

Poor Eidolon. :frown: The fella never gets a break.

Oh, and let me guess, his prior self-delusions are among those things that you can't reveal to us without spoiling a plot element, right?

jpholding

September 22nd 2006, 10:44 AM

Howdy...note to all first:

1) Sometime in the next day or two I will have a new design for the front page done that I'll post a link to. I'll be asking for response. You will see that the Hearthstone comics will be more front and center and that the parody section recedes in prominence.

2) 4 more pages also will be up soon. Today or tomorrow I hope.

Any idea yet what they might be called, if anything?

Not yet. Of the questions you asked, the only thing I have a firm answer of any sort for is:

In light of the next answer you gave, would that founder be the historical Pasin himself?

Yes.

The rest is open and I'll probably keep it that way until a need arises. One thing I was advised of is that it's never good to set elements in stone until you need to. If I commit to something now, I may find out later that it won't work with other plot elements I come up with. When that happens, continuity usually suffers.

I do have one observation here:

Would either have had any history of military conflict with any of the other religious groups in Hearthstone's history?

One thing I have firmly decided is that military conflict as a whole has been far less of a problem on Hearthstone than it has been for us. I've said that this is because of a disaster in the past that devastated the planet, resulting in 1) The emergence of the Prycene Empire as a controlling force (and connected to that, the Prycenes' adherence to Covenant principles); 2) a sense of unity and mutual assistance. Their psyche is such that they are LESS likely to go to war and more likely to seek some resolution. It probably doesn't hurt that they have a lot more land and a lot less people. It would be easier (not committing to anything here) for oppressed followers of some sect to arrive at a "Mormon solution" and move somewhere where they could live freely. In addition, the Prycene Empire accomplished the ideal that we failed to accomplish in people like Charlemagne, a truly "holy empire" that didn't fall victim to its own weaknesses (or to barbarian hordes, for that matter).

I'll give ya $10 to actually put the phrase "BBQ sauce seraph" into the text of one of your Hearthstone comics. :rasberry:

I'll do it. ST #7 will afford a perfect chance for that. :wink: And by then you can become a subscriber.

Oh, and let me guess, his prior self-delusions are among those things that you can't reveal to us without spoiling a plot element, right?

To some extent, but one of them is a bit out in the open already: His marriage to Lady Abigail. The crossover story will explain about that (and the related self-delusion) fully.

jpholding

September 22nd 2006, 12:50 PM

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/indexer2.html

This is the idea for the new front page design. Comments? (No, the links are not supposed to be active yet...)

September 22nd 2006, 01:03 PM

Not yet. Of the questions you asked, the only thing I have a firm answer of any sort for is:

Figures. :tongue:

Yes [ the historical Pasin was the founder of Pasinism].

Good.

The rest is open and I'll probably keep it that way until a need arises. One thing I was advised of is that it's never good to set elements in stone until you need to. If I commit to something now, I may find out later that it won't work with other plot elements I come up with. When that happens, continuity usually suffers.

I suppose on that basis, I'll let you off the hook for not having the details worked out yet. :wink:

I do have one observation here:

One thing I have firmly decided is that military conflict as a whole has been far less of a problem on Hearthstone than it has been for us. I've said that this is because of a disaster in the past that devastated the planet, resulting in 1) The emergence of the Prycene Empire as a controlling force (and connected to that, the Prycenes' adherence to Covenant principles); 2) a sense of unity and mutual assistance. Their psyche is such that they are LESS likely to go to war and more likely to seek some resolution. It probably doesn't hurt that they have a lot more land and a lot less people. It would be easier (not committing to anything here) for oppressed followers of some sect to arrive at a "Mormon solution" and move somewhere where they could live freely. In addition, the Prycene Empire accomplished the ideal that we failed to accomplish in people like Charlemagne, a truly "holy empire" that didn't fall victim to its own weaknesses (or to barbarian hordes, for that matter).

What about prior to the disaster?

I'll do it. ST #7 will afford a perfect chance for that. :wink: And by then you can become a subscriber.

:woohoo: Can't wait to see how on earth the term "BBQ sauce seraph" is going to fit in there, but I'm betting it'll be funny.

To some extent, but one of them is a bit out in the open already: His marriage to Lady Abigail. The crossover story will explain about that (and the related self-delusion) fully.

Excellent. I do have another question, though. Was this Eidolon's sole marriage during his history, or have there been others as well?

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/indexer2.html

This is the idea for the new front page design. Comments? (No, the links are not supposed to be active yet...)

Looks nice! :thumb: Not perfectly symmetrical in terms of the sizes of the boxes along the sides, but I think readers will adjust to that pretty quickly. The link to the latest pages at the top is a very nice touch. My only recommendation, if possible, would be to have the central contents centered a bit more.

jpholding

September 22nd 2006, 01:17 PM

What about prior to the disaster?

Generally, an idyllic age of cooperation, followed by some conflict caused by a race called the Elkisi. Eidolon says in his history:

In this early age our world was greatly at peace. The many races cooperated, each with their own special talent that contributed to the harmony of the whole. It was not until the Hegemony of the Elkisi was established that the first seeds of discontent and malice were sown; and I harbor suspicions that some portion of this discontent was inspired by the K'rek'skran.

The Elkisi, a race of the Northwest, were wiser in counsel than the other races of that land, and persuaded many other races -- by reason, not by force -- to join them in the Hegemony of which they were administrators. Their influence extended even unto the Northeastern Continent, at its height. But it came to pass that some of the races of their land that declined membership cast their evil eye upon the successes of the Hegemony, and coveted their lands and possessions, such that war ensued. The Elkisi, with their allies, easily overcame these incursions, but among them a division occurred, some wishing to make peace with the hostile races, others wishing to destroy them by force to prevent further incursions. It is this conflict that compelled the judgment that would be the shattering, and plunged our world into centuries of darkness.

Details shall be made known within two years. :wink: And I think they'll be the first thing to be "subscriber only" access.

Was this Eidolon's sole marriage during his history, or have there been others as well?

It's a firm decision that this is his only marriage in history. On the other hand, he does make social calls of the platonic variety on members of the fairer sex. Scene coming up in the crossover story to illustrate that.

My only recommendation, if possible, would be to have the central contents centered a bit more.

Anyone who can figure the code to do that is welcome to advise. :smile:

Leonhard

September 22nd 2006, 01:21 PM

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/indexer2.html

This is the idea for the new front page design. Comments? (No, the links are not supposed to be active yet...)

My honest opinion; Nice images, but it feels rather cluttered. I always imagined a single front image, with small text links to the other parts, sorta like this girlgeniusonline (http://www.girlgeniusonline.com/)

September 22nd 2006, 01:33 PM

Generally, an idyllic age of cooperation, followed by some conflict caused by a race called the Elkisi. Eidolon says in his history:

In this early age our world was greatly at peace. The many races cooperated, each with their own special talent that contributed to the harmony of the whole. It was not until the Hegemony of the Elkisi was established that the first seeds of discontent and malice were sown; and I harbor suspicions that some portion of this discontent was inspired by the K'rek'skran.

The Elkisi, a race of the Northwest, were wiser in counsel than the other races of that land, and persuaded many other races -- by reason, not by force -- to join them in the Hegemony of which they were administrators. Their influence extended even unto the Northeastern Continent, at its height. But it came to pass that some of the races of their land that declined membership cast their evil eye upon the successes of the Hegemony, and coveted their lands and possessions, such that war ensued. The Elkisi, with their allies, easily overcame these incursions, but among them a division occurred, some wishing to make peace with the hostile races, others wishing to destroy them by force to prevent further incursions. It is this conflict that compelled the judgment that would be the shattering, and plunged our world into centuries of darkness.

Details shall be made known within two years. :wink: And I think they'll be the first thing to be "subscriber only" access.

:thumb:

It's a firm decision that this is his only marriage in history.

Any particular reason for choosing that to be the case?

On the other hand, he does make social calls of the platonic variety on members of the fairer sex. Scene coming up in the crossover story to illustrate that.

Cool. I look forward to it.

Anyone who can figure the code to do that is welcome to advise. :smile:

IOW, not me. :lol:

jpholding

September 22nd 2006, 02:14 PM

My honest opinion; Nice images, but it feels rather cluttered. I always imagined a single front image, with small text links to the other parts, sorta like this girlgeniusonline (http://www.girlgeniusonline.com/)

That was my original idea as well: Just the image with Brom and Sheila, and maybe also the What's New and email link. Then the other stuff on the next page. It would be easy to do...anyone else feel that way? Or am I battling unbridled subjectivity here? :rofl:

Any particular reason for choosing that to be the case?

I have something of a model here from Eddings' Belgarath character. What happens when a mortal and an immortal marry? The former grows old and dies and the latter is left in misery. He'll have been wise enough to know that, but what happened with Abigail was a mistake he made in his weakness. Now he's paying for it.

It's bad enough when you have friends who constantly die off on you, but a spouse...and more than one at that?...

September 22nd 2006, 02:34 PM

That was my original idea as well: Just the image with Brom and Sheila, and maybe also the What's New and email link. Then the other stuff on the next page. It would be easy to do...anyone else feel that way? Or am I battling unbridled subjectivity here? :rofl:

I personally favor the way the page has always looked. :rasberry:

I have something of a model here from Eddings' Belgarath character. What happens when a mortal and an immortal marry? The former grows old and dies and the latter is left in misery. He'll have been wise enough to know that, but what happened with Abigail was a mistake he made in his weakness. Now he's paying for it.

It's bad enough when you have friends who constantly die off on you, but a spouse...and more than one at that?...

It's certainly understandable, then, why Eidolon might be quite reluctant to get too closely attached to anyone on such a profound emotional level. And I suspect, from the sound of it, that he did not happen to have a wife prior to obtaining his immortality.

jpholding

September 22nd 2006, 02:40 PM

I personally favor the way the page has always looked. :rasberry:

I appreciate that. The problem is, you guys know me....I'm trying to figure out what would be best to present to someone coming across Hearthstone for the first time, which is gonna happen a LOT more when I start publicizing.

Here's what Leonhard's idea would amount to, I think:

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/indexer3.html

I'm actually partial to it after a good look.

And I suspect, from the sound of it, that he did not happen to have a wife prior to obtaining his immortality.

No....in fact, he was anything but one for serious commitment. Later on I do have the idea that he had a Damascus Road encounter which set him on his path.

Darth Executor

September 22nd 2006, 02:49 PM

I appreciate that. The problem is, you guys know me....I'm trying to figure out what would be best to present to someone coming across Hearthstone for the first time, which is gonna happen a LOT more when I start publicizing.

Here's what Leonhard's idea would amount to, I think:

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/indexer3.html

I'm actually partial to it after a good look.

So am I, but the hoodless Eidolon has to go. He sends me into fits of laughter whenever I see him (in the actual stories too :rasberry:)

September 22nd 2006, 02:54 PM

I'm never gonna finish re-reading Hesiod's Theogony if you keep interrupting me, JP. :hehe:

I appreciate that. The problem is, you guys know me....I'm trying to figure out what would be best to present to someone coming across Hearthstone for the first time, which is gonna happen a LOT more when I start publicizing.

Here's what Leonhard's idea would amount to, I think:

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/indexer3.html

I'm actually partial to it after a good look.

Hey, now that one I'm rather fond of. Question, though: would we find the parody stuff, Screwball Awards, etc., classified under "Miscellaneous" in the new version?

No....in fact, he was anything but one for serious commitment. Later on I do have the idea that he had a Damascus Road encounter which set him on his path.

Always with the fascinating plot elements. :tongue: Was Eidolon an adherent of the Covenant prior to royally screwing things up and letting the K'rek'skran back in?

Leonhard

September 22nd 2006, 03:31 PM

Sorry that I've been so quite these past few days, studying takes out most of my energy.

Anyway I must say that shriketoon4 is the most exciting so far. Eidolon is really starting to look like a real being with real emotions. He is less and less the stern imposingly immortal prophet we saw in shriketoon1-2, on the final panels of shriketoon4023 (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4023.html) we finally see some true character shine. I can't wait to see how he turns out.

I guess its my turn to ask a few questions now :teeth:

In shriketoon4022 (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4022.html) Brom drops the paper with the incantation, is this something to be concerned about? Tyra's arm looked pretty badly burned, was that a real arm or a prostetic?

I appreciate that. The problem is, you guys know me....I'm trying to figure out what would be best to present to someone coming across Hearthstone for the first time, which is gonna happen a LOT more when I start publicizing.

Here's what Leonhard's idea would amount to, I think:

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/indexer3.html

I'm actually partial to it after a good look.

Do more with less, minimalism is the way to go :wink:

No....in fact, he was anything but one for serious commitment. Later on I do have the idea that he had a Damascus Road encounter which set him on his path.

Heh ever since you told us about his past, I've always imagined him as sort of a hill billy going fishing most of the time. But then I realise this wouldn't mix too well with him being an Av'nen. I'm definitly gonna subscribe, so I can't wait to see how its gonna turn out.

Oh, one final question. Is the reason Annabelle looks like lady Abigail (hey their names rhyme), that Eidolon and Abigail made a mini Eidolon? Or Eidolina? Sorta Annabelle is a distant relative of Eidolon?

jpholding

September 22nd 2006, 04:35 PM

One more before I sign off for the weekend. :smile:

So am I, but the hoodless Eidolon has to go. He sends me into fits of laughter whenever I see him (in the actual stories too :rasberry:)

That's OK. :hehe: Remember, it's not supposed to be taken TOO seriously.

Hey, now that one I'm rather fond of. Question, though: would we find the parody stuff, Screwball Awards, etc., classified under "Miscellaneous" in the new version?

Yes. Some new stuff, too, like a gallery of avatars I've made.

Was Eidolon an adherent of the Covenant prior to royally screwing things up and letting the K'rek'skran back in?

Definitely not.

Anyway I must say that shriketoon4 is the most exciting so far. Eidolon is really starting to look like a real being with real emotions. He is less and less the stern imposingly immortal prophet we saw in shriketoon1-2, on the final panels of shriketoon4023 we finally see some true character shine. I can't wait to see how he turns out.

Oh my....the crossover story's gonna really fascinate you, then. :hehe: But even the next installment will give a little insight into the way he is when he's not a prophet.

In shriketoon4022 Brom drops the paper with the incantation, is this something to be concerned about?

Nah. Someone in the Covenant would have to pick ip up and read it aloud for anything to happen. More likely it'll blow away into a gutter somewhere.

I actually did think about that, by the way. :thumb:

Tyra's arm looked pretty badly burned, was that a real arm or a prostetic?

Prosthetic. Last scene in this story will give some more insight.

Do more with less, minimalism is the way to go

We'll see what my expert consult thinks too.

Heh ever since you told us about his past, I've always imagined him as sort of a hill billy going fishing most of the time.

Oh, he had hobbies all right. :hehe:

Is the reason Annabelle looks like lady Abigail (hey their names rhyme), that Eidolon and Abigail made a mini Eidolon? Or Eidolina? Sorta Annabelle is a distant relative of Eidolon?

Nope. Eidolon and Abigail were childless: http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon3/shriketoon3017.html

Eidolona....don't give JB any more ideas. He got the guy mad enough with the red riding hood thingy. :hehe:

Upload tomorrow....see ya'll.

jpholding

September 23rd 2006, 09:07 AM

September 23rd 2006, 11:01 AM

Originally posted by Hesiod's buddy

:hehe: No worries, JP, I finished the work within 10 minutes after making that post.

Yes. Some new stuff, too, like a gallery of avatars I've made.

Very nice. Will the Valapine one you drew for me be among them? I hope so, I forgot to save it before I switched to this one. :tongue:

Definitely not.

I wouldn't have thought so, but I do remember you having said that the Covenant of M'kai is the majority religion on Hearthstone. Was that also the case in the past? Have there been any times when another religious group had greater numbers?

Oh my....the crossover story's gonna really fascinate you, then. :hehe: But even the next installment will give a little insight into the way he is when he's not a prophet.

Awesome update! :thumb:

Oh, he had hobbies all right. :hehe:

There's something vaguely disconcerting about the way you say that. Would Eidolon's former "hobbies" be relevant to the plot in some manner?

Eidolona....don't give JB any more ideas. He got the guy mad enough with the red riding hood thingy. :hehe:

Hmmm... I do suppose Eidolon the Transgendered would be an even bigger step than Eidolon the Red-Hooded. :grin:

One more before I sign off for the weekend. :smile:

Hope you have a great weekend, JP.

Leonhard

September 23rd 2006, 11:47 AM

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4025.html

Three more pages.

My pro advisor thinks a combo of the two title page models may be a good idea. We'll see what the specifics are next week.

shriketoon4025 (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4025.html)
Heh, curly gurl :hehe: and about the final panel, I was kinda guessing that this was what your avatar was about.

shriketoon4026 (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4026.html)
On the second panel there is a huge chunk of Eidolon thats coloured exactly the wall. A pretty spartan living area, does it have a kitchen? He doesn't need to eat, does he?

shriketoon4027 (http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4027.html)
Little brother? Well she is 55 revs older than him :hehe: Hah, Brom gets scolded again, guess its hard for him to adjust his mental image of Eidolon from the odd friend to the immortal prophet/priest.

jpholding

September 23rd 2006, 01:01 PM

Hey people! :hehe:

:
Very nice. Will the Valapine one you drew for me be among them? I hope so, I forgot to save it before I switched to this one. :tongue:

Yep. I keep a special folder on my desktop with the title "spares" that I throw all miscellaneous art into. All the avatars and other stuff like the picsd of LGM I did are in that folder. It's got a lot of stuff in it. :hehe:

Was that also the case in the past? Have there been any times when another religious group had greater numbers?

I hadn't decided, but my guess would be no, it has always been the majority faith.

There's something vaguely disconcerting about the way you say that. Would Eidolon's former "hobbies" be relevant to the plot in some manner?

Ooooh yeah. :hehe: In a "mega" sense. There actually hasn't been anything he's said or done yet that offers clues about it, though. The first vague hints will emerge in the crossover.

Hmmm... I do suppose Eidolon the Transgendered would be an even bigger step than Eidolon the Red-Hooded. :grin:

Funny you should say that. :hehe: No, he's not one of those but your request inspired a response I'll be using in one of the next updates.

On the second panel there is a huge chunk of Eidolon thats coloured exactly the wall. A pretty spartan living area, does it have a kitchen? He doesn't need to eat, does he?

I'm mystified by the color thing. It doesn't show on my home copy but I see it here at someone else's house. I'll try to figure it out later.

Someone asked me if he needs to eat this past week. :hehe: I decided some time ago that if he doesn't, he goes into a sort of hibernation mode. So I'd say the Shelter is fully stocked.

September 23rd 2006, 02:54 PM

Hey people! :hehe:

Just whaddya think you're doin' here on the weekend, huh? Do we need to write a letter to your wife recommending that she keep you in a cage for the sake of TWeb? :rasberry:

Yep. I keep a special folder on my desktop with the title "spares" that I throw all miscellaneous art into. All the avatars and other stuff like the picsd of LGM I did are in that folder. It's got a lot of stuff in it. :hehe:

Can't wait to see the collection. :smile:

I hadn't decided, but my guess would be no, it has always been the majority faith.

Hmm, so then perhaps it would be reasonable to say that there have been no major persecutions of Covenant adherents, yes? (Save, perhaps, for in Cartel lands, I might imagine.)

Ooooh yeah. :hehe: In a "mega" sense. There actually hasn't been anything he's said or done yet that offers clues about it, though. The first vague hints will emerge in the crossover.

:glare: Something else to drive me nuts until it finally surfaces in future issues.

Funny you should say that. :hehe: No, he's not one of those but your request inspired a response I'll be using in one of the next updates.

:huh: Can't imagine how on earth what I said inspired anything, but I have a feeling we should all be very afraid.

I'm mystified by the color thing. It doesn't show on my home copy but I see it here at someone else's house. I'll try to figure it out later.

I have to say, I can't really see this alleged chunk of discolored Av'nen flesh. But, you know my visual abilities.

Someone asked me if he needs to eat this past week. :hehe: I decided some time ago that if he doesn't, he goes into a sort of hibernation mode. So I'd say the Shelter is fully stocked.

Has Eidolon ever gone into one of these hibernation modes before, and how long do they tend to last?

Little Shepherd

September 23rd 2006, 06:14 PM

:bawl: Well, so much for Brom & Felicity becoming an item, I guess.

jpholding

September 23rd 2006, 07:56 PM

OK, someone tell me if page 26 still has that same problem now. I didn't see it
here at home but I did a color fill on that part and hopefully that helped. I think I know what happened and it had to do with an editing process I had to do.

Just whaddya think you're doin' here on the weekend, huh? Do we need to write a letter to your wife recommending that she keep you in a cage for the sake of TWeb? :rasberry:

Aw, she was enjoying a conversation with my grandmother at the time I wrote dat. Phooey on you. :tongue:

Hmm, so then perhaps it would be reasonable to say that there have been no major persecutions of Covenant adherents, yes?

Yes. I feel safe saying that with surety. And yes, the Sk'lan have definitely been perseucting Covenant members, too. In fact, Molinist's origins are from a Cartel experiment gone awry (from their POV); he was used as a subject because he was being persecuted as a Covenant member (after the manner of Mengele's use of his subjects). I plan on putting up a page on Molinist with the revamp that explains this, so again, not any problem to note this here.

I have to say, I can't really see this alleged chunk of discolored Av'nen flesh. But, you know my visual abilities.

I suspect some people have screens with more colors than ours. I saw it clearly where I was visiting, and when I came home -- nope. So whoever has those more advanced screens -- fill me in if ya please.

Has Eidolon ever gone into one of these hibernation modes before, and how long do they tend to last?

I have plans for him to go into one in the future that will last at least a thousand of their years. But that's not the only use I have for the concept. Nuff said. :wink:

Well, so much for Brom & Felicity becoming an item, I guess.

Hey, she'll still tease the heck out of him about it, though. :hehe:

jpholding

September 23rd 2006, 08:48 PM

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/indexer3.html

My pro contact suggested a few tweaks and this is the result....we have colored buttons along the bottom of the main logo.

I think this may be the final version.

Leonhard

September 24th 2006, 02:13 AM

OK, someone tell me if page 26 still has that same problem now.

Discoloured av'nen flesh is gone.

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/indexer3.html

My pro contact suggested a few tweaks and this is the result....we have colored buttons along the bottom of the main logo.

I think this may be the final version.

Its definitly better than the first suggestion.

Spheniscine

September 24th 2006, 03:28 AM

Discoloured av'nen flesh is gone.
Still looks discolored to me.

jpholding

September 24th 2006, 11:26 AM

Still looks discolored to me.

Refresh the page and see if that's still the case.

Yeah, I'm home this mornin' -- couldn't get the garage door to open. :glare: Did one of you guys sabotage it thinking I'd work on Hearthstone instead?

Darth Executor

September 24th 2006, 11:37 AM

Yeah, I'm home this mornin' -- couldn't get the garage door to open. :glare: Did one of you guys sabotage it thinking I'd work on Hearthstone instead?

Beats doing homework. Although I somehow managed to finish it in a few hours when I expected to take all day. Me = procastination incarnate :duh:

Spheniscine

September 24th 2006, 10:36 PM

Refresh the page and see if that's still the case.
Did. Even flushed my cache.

jpholding

September 25th 2006, 10:45 AM

Buy a new computer and see what happens. :hehe:

Seriously though....Leon says it is gone, anyone else still see it?

Teallaura

September 25th 2006, 10:58 AM

Buy a new computer and see what happens. :hehe:

Seriously though....Leon says it is gone, anyone else still see it?:I don't. :shrug:

Spheniscine

September 25th 2006, 11:58 AM

Leonhard

September 25th 2006, 01:16 PM

Here's a pic - I had earlier tried using the attachment feature, but apparently it didn't work.

http://img76.imageshack.us/img76/6693/eidolonerrormu4.png (http://imageshack.us)

Note the little square of flesh below the cloak is of a different color.
I hadn't actually seen that, the part I was talking about was a huge square chunk above the cloak, but apparently it extends to that chunk as well.

Teallaura

September 25th 2006, 01:33 PM

Here's a pic - I had earlier tried using the attachment feature, but apparently it didn't work.

http://img76.imageshack.us/img76/6693/eidolonerrormu4.png (http://imageshack.us/)

Note the little square of flesh below the cloak is of a different color.

There's a problem - you can attach it using [attachment=1] in your post, but it will only attach a link.

Teallaura

September 25th 2006, 01:36 PM

Weird, I can't even see the problem - of course the link pic is pretty small... but nothing seems wrong in the original.

:shrug:

sc_q_jayce

September 25th 2006, 04:20 PM

So...

Your new layout isn't bad at all! I approve. :thumb:

By the way, here were a few examples I was thinking that I never got around to talking about because I got lazy:

Dr. McNinja (http://drmcninja.com) - While each section clearly marked off by chapter as can be seen in the Archives, it also stands to reason that any page is accessible at any time. The menu also remains at top so that any part of the website can be accessed while browsing the comic.

Nine Planets Without Intelligent Life (http://www.bohemiandrive.com/comics/npwil.html) - They use an infinite canvas layout which goes comic by comic, so this may not be as directly analogous to your series. For this comic, the latest page is available, with the archives conveniently listed below. While on the comic, again, the main menus are still available to access, though one cannot necessarily have immediate access to each and every page.

Shortpacked! (http://www.shortpacked.com) - Again, more episodic in nature, so probably more difficult to relate to since there's no necessity to take a particular overarching direction at this point. Nonetheless, the main page gives access to the First Comic/ Previous Comic/ Next Comic/ Present Comic, also while at the same time allowing one to jump between subsections.

There are a few which I am hesitant to display to you on Theology Web as well, so you'll have to e-mail me for them. But there are a few comics I know that have the more chapter-like divisions that take on a particular story. They're just... not likely to be seen on TWeb, is all.

Darth Executor

September 25th 2006, 11:29 PM

If JP's avatar is about me, I'm guessing I somehow ended up in an arranged marriage with Pepper. :hrm:

Coincidentally, I also happen to like Dr. Pepper. I don't suppose Hearthstonians taste like Terran soft drinks? ;:)

jpholding

September 26th 2006, 10:10 AM

Your new layout isn't bad at all! I approve. :thumb:

Thank ye, Cap'n Chopstick! :bow:

By the way, here were a few examples I was thinking that I never got around to talking about because I got lazy:

Dr. McNinja (http://drmcninja.com) - While each section clearly marked off by chapter as can be seen in the Archives, it also stands to reason that any page is accessible at any time. The menu also remains at top so that any part of the website can be accessed while browsing the comic.

This one seemed to be the best help. I'm a little bewildered, though, by the nature of the indexing. It seems pointless to have links to page numbers unless you also say what is on that page.

I think what I will do is divide each Hearthstone story into chapters (say, 8-10) and create headings for them that will go on each page. I'll also include micro-pictures that illustrate the theme of the chapter.

That will come soon. Right now I'm working on a new story hub page that will present the two storyline links in parallel columns.

There are a few which I am hesitant to display to you on Theology Web as well, so you'll have to e-mail me for them. But there are a few comics I know that have the more chapter-like divisions that take on a particular story. They're just... not likely to be seen on TWeb, is all.

OK, PM me the best three, in your opinion.

If JP's avatar is about me, I'm guessing I somehow ended up in an arranged marriage with Pepper.

You gave her the title, "girl of my dreams" with your avatar, remember?

Just helpin' you out there. :hehe:

Coincidentally, I also happen to like Dr. Pepper. I don't suppose Hearthstonians taste like Terran soft drinks? ;:)

She's sweet, at least, and it isn't artificial.

jpholding

September 27th 2006, 11:57 AM

Here's a draft for the new Annals hub page:

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/hearthstone.html

As before links are not necessarily functional. Any thoughts?

September 27th 2006, 01:29 PM

Here's a draft for the new Annals hub page:

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/hearthstone.html

As before links are not necessarily functional. Any thoughts?

My stance on the matter can be summed up quite succinctly: :thumb:

Looks great to me, JP. The 'rang and leaf are a very nice touch.

Teallaura

September 27th 2006, 01:46 PM

:thumb: Looks good!

jpholding

September 27th 2006, 02:18 PM

Thanks you two. I'll see what my pro advisor thinks.

Update tomorrow, then the last part of ST #4 this weekend, I think. I already started inks on RP #5. There are 126 pages (large drawing sizes) and I have 6 done already; did 5 last night.

Spheniscine

September 28th 2006, 12:06 AM

Here's a draft for the new Annals hub page:

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/hearthstone.html

As before links are not necessarily functional. Any thoughts?
I like it.

jpholding

September 28th 2006, 06:34 AM

September 28th 2006, 06:07 PM

Thank you. :smile: My advisor only had one minor suggestion, so it looks like this is set. In a few days I'll post a sample of a new page presentation design.

Update:

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4028.html

Looks good, JP. :thumb: How old would you say Brom is in that flashback?

Question 2: Will it be revealed soon as to how the K'rek'skran managed to bar the powers of the seraphs from proper function on that island?

Oh, and...

I won't... but I sure don't see him in a blond wig and carryin' a basket.

:rofl: That truly caught me off guard.

jpholding

September 29th 2006, 10:03 AM

Looks good, JP. :thumb: How old would you say Brom is in that flashback?

Thanks. :smile: Six revs was the age I had in mind.

I'm hoping in the crossover story to have a flashback of a meeting between Sheila and Eidolon when she was about the same age. Since it will be a "double issue" and I keep having ideas it may end up twice the size of a normal story.

Question 2: Will it be revealed soon as to how the K'rek'skran managed to bar the powers of the seraphs from proper function on that island?

Yes. ST #6 will make that clear.

I'm also thinking that Eidolon will do a "bard's performance" of his history when the two crews meet.

That truly caught me off guard.

Hey, I told ya I was gonna do something like that. :teeth:

A little later today I'll have something small but special...profile pages for Tyk Jyn-Rayana and Molinist. The last two pages of Boughs of Freedom should be up tomorrow.

jpholding

September 29th 2006, 02:59 PM

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/tykjyn.html
http://www.tektoonics.com/test/molinist.html

Some depth insight into the as yet to appear Shrike Team members....

Little Shepherd

September 29th 2006, 04:49 PM

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/tykjyn.html
http://www.tektoonics.com/test/molinist.html

Some depth insight into the as yet to appear Shrike Team members....
Hm . . . I did some math and if you have relatively similar development between humans and Prycenes, Tyk would fall within 9.8 and 15 years old(I didn't know what you used as average human life expectancy, so I assumed no less than 65 and no greater than 100). Am I correct in assuming that Prycenes(and probably other hearthstonians) develop similarly to humans until they reach young adulthood, and then age more slowly? That would make sense. You'd have the first 18 or so revs be similar to human years, and then the next 80 revs would equal ~10 years, but that would depend somewhat on what you consider average human lifespan.

Edit: I just did the math, and if you do have the first 18 revs coincide with humans and then every 80 thereafter equal 10 human years, that would make a Prycene of 650 the equal of a human of 97. I almost didn't do the math because I didn't see the obvious method right away(I'm tired), but I noticed it in time to edit my post. So yay!

September 29th 2006, 08:00 PM

Thanks. :smile: Six revs was the age I had in mind.

Hmm, so drawing on Little Shepherd's work on the relationship between Prycene age as measured in revs and human age as measured in years, that's the equivalent of... Okay, I'm a math major (a double major in religion and secondary math education, to be precise :tongue:), I don't feel like subjecting myself to numbers in my time off.

I'm hoping in the crossover story to have a flashback of a meeting between Sheila and Eidolon when she was about the same age. Since it will be a "double issue" and I keep having ideas it may end up twice the size of a normal story.

Twice the size is not a bad thing. Well, at least not for the readers, I can't speak for you. :teeth:

Yes. ST #6 will make that clear.

I'm also thinking that Eidolon will do a "bard's performance" of his history when the two crews meet.

I suspect I'll thoroughly enjoy that.

Hey, I told ya I was gonna do something like that. :teeth:

You find some basis on which to conclude that I was paying attention? :rasberry:

Did I ever mention my idea that you should send Corduan the picture you drew of Eidolon as Little Red Riding Hood, or was that just something that popped into my mind one day and departed before I logged on to TWeb?

A little later today I'll have something small but special...profile pages for Tyk Jyn-Rayana and Molinist. The last two pages of Boughs of Freedom should be up tomorrow.

:woohoo:

One thing of which I should make note for you: On the profile page (http://www.tektoonics.com/test/tykjyn.html) for Tyk Jyn-Rayana, you have her position listed as "Duchess of Bryony". On Etcetera (http://www.tektoonics.com/etc/etc.html), though, she introduces herself as the "Duchess of Briary". Just thought you might like to get that in order before moving on from the profiles. This way I won't end up getting on your case about the discrepancy later.

Little Shepherd

September 29th 2006, 09:08 PM

Hmm, so drawing on Little Shepherd's work on the relationship between Prycene age as measured in revs and human age as measured in years, that's the equivalent of... Okay, I'm a math major (a double major in religion and secondary math education, to be precise :tongue:), I don't feel like subjecting myself to numbers in my time off.
That's good, because I already did the math. If their development is spread out to mimic human development(in % of lifespan), then Brom at 6 revs should be about 0.9 human years in development. This is obviously not the case, which is what led me to conclude that Prycene development is similar to human(1 rev ~ 1 year) until they hit young adulthood at ~18 revs, with every 80 revs thereafter equalling about 10 human years development-wise.

The formula is really easy once you have that established. Take the first 18 revs of Tyk's life and equal that to 18 human years. That leaves her with 80 revs to account for her 10 human years worth of development, giving me the post-adulthood formula of 80 revs ~ 10 years. If you expand that out, then you end up with 650 revs being equivalent to 97 human years.
18 > 18
98 > 28
178 > 38
258 > 48
338 > 58
418 > 68
498 > 78
578 > 88
658 > 98
650 > 97

Spheniscine

September 29th 2006, 11:01 PM

So I'm guessing that there would be a lot more adults than kids?

jpholding

September 30th 2006, 10:54 AM

Howdy,

I'm working up the "insider" page now and consulting this thread for ideas. Expect a lot of what's here to be included. Then I'll load up the conclusion.

Am I correct in assuming that Prycenes(and probably other hearthstonians) develop similarly to humans until they reach young adulthood, and then age more slowly? That would make sense. You'd have the first 18 or so revs be similar to human years, and then the next 80 revs would equal ~10 years, but that would depend somewhat on what you consider average human lifespan.

Yes. In this I'm following a model that has also been adapted for, for example, dogs. It used to be thought that for dogs, every year was equal to 7 human years. So Toby would be 105 by that measure! But now they've changed that, so that the first two years are equal to 25 years, and every year after that (at least for smaller dogs like Toby) is equal to 4 human years. So Toby is actually 77 by our measure. Not that you can tell the way he scampers around for his meals....

Twice the size is not a bad thing. Well, at least not for the readers, I can't speak for you.

It's cool by me. :teeth:

Did I ever mention my idea that you should send Corduan the picture you drew of Eidolon as Little Red Riding Hood, or was that just something that popped into my mind one day and departed before I logged on to TWeb?

The joke might not mean much to him since he wouldn't appreciate the full irony of "Old Grim Face" (as my expert consult calls Eidolon) dressed up like that. :hehe:

On Etcetera, though, she introduces herself as the "Duchess of Briary". Just thought you might like to get that in order before moving on from the profiles.

I'll be getting rid of the Etc. page as it now stands so "Briony" will become the official name of the place. Sounds a little more regal to me.

So I'm guessing that there would be a lot more adults than kids?

Absolutely. You'll notice that you've seen very few children so far in either story -- just three in Range Patrol (Sheila as a baby, a child being evacuated to a shelter in #2, and the grateful flower-bearer in RP #3). And none in ST so far at all until now.

curium

September 30th 2006, 11:02 AM

JP,

I just wanted to say that I loved your tektoonics mockery of Brooks Trubee and keep up the good work! :lol:

By the way, I created a thread in the apologetics section for you here:

TO: JPHolding and others, supposed Bible contradiction - population armies/peoples
http://www.theologyweb.com/campus/showthread.php?t=84642

jpholding

September 30th 2006, 11:38 AM

By the way, I created a thread in the apologetics section for you here:

TO: JPHolding and others, supposed Bible contradiction - population armies/peoples
http://www.theologyweb.com/campus/showthread.php?t=84642

Thanks! I may or may not get in there today (and reply to your PM). It's the weekend and I try to keep away from apologetics.

But for all, here's the conclusion of the story....start at the bottom:

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4031.html

Will try to get some revamp stuff done now since the Mrs. is mopping the floors today.

Leonhard

September 30th 2006, 03:36 PM

But for all, here's the conclusion of the story....start at the bottom:

http://www.tektoonics.com/intro/shriketoon4/shriketoon4031.html

How cool is this! Just in time for birthday, awesome timing there mr H.

I have a question about tilkrieg implants: How far, is considered too far by tilkriegs? An arm implant and eye implant seems to be common, but I guess Tyra is gonna skate at the edge now and Darthex has surely crossed it. That Feranine implant sure is ugly. The eye on it is even less aesthetically pleasing than beamers eyeturret.

If such things ever become possible (not plasma cannons and other trek like tech, but cyberenhancements) I do wonder how our society would use it. Only for the handicapped? Handicaps and soldiers? Restricted commercial use under severe regulations? Or what?

September 30th 2006, 04:42 PM

The joke might not mean much to him since he wouldn't appreciate the full irony of "Old Grim Face" (as my expert consult calls Eidolon) dressed up like that. :hehe:

I wonder if Corduan would even remember what he first said about Eidolon. It's been a while.

I'll be getting rid of the Etc. page as it now stands so "Briony" will become the official name of the place. Sounds a little more regal to me.

Now you just need to decide whether you're going to spell it as "Briony" or "Bryony". :rasberry:

I'm loving the conclusion. Would you be willing to clarify, though, the thoughts going through Brom's and Felicity's minds when they find out that Brom's great-grandmother gave Eidolon driving lessons?

The insider page is also pretty great. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to hop over to the "broken link" thread to point out a few things about it. :hehe:

jpholding

September 30th 2006, 05:04 PM

First of all, new test page here:

http://www.tektoonics.com/test/shriketoon4001.html

This is what a typical reading page would look like. The chart near the bottom would offer "chapter jump" links so that jayce doesn't clicky his finger to death (he has to save that for chopsticks, I assume). Also new would be links to the Almanac and Subscription pages.

Also, though none are on this page, I plan to retain the use of notes of four types, each hosted by a small box with one character:

Science Notes (by Beamer)
Almanas Notes (by Brimstone)
Historical Notes (by Eidolon)
Continuity Notes (by Tyk Jyn-Rayana)

After I finish here I'll work on what those buttons will look like.

How cool is this! Just in time for birthday, awesome timing there mr H.

Happy birthday! In celebration we sing to you, Weird Al Yankovic's "Happy Birthday" song:

Happy birthday
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday
Happy birthday to you
wow! (background screaming, sound effect)

Well there's a punk in the alley and he's looking for a fight
There's an Arab on the corner buying everything in sight
There's a mother in the ghetto with another mouth to feed
Seems that everywhere you look today there's misery and greed

I guess you know the Earth is gonna crash into the sun
But that's no reason why we shouldn't have a little fun
So if you think it's scary, if it's more than you can take
Just blow out the candles and have a piece of cake!

Happy birthday
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday
Happy birthday to you
wow!

I have a question about tilkrieg implants: How far, is considered too far by tilkriegs? An arm implant and eye implant seems to be common, but I guess Tyra is gonna skate at the edge now and Darthex has surely crossed it.

No doubt. I came up with the idea of a "disfigurement quotient" at the last minute when typing the dialogue. I have not decided what is "too far" but would suspect that it is assumed that Tyra's choice is not "too far" for one in her field, while it would be too much for someone in a lesser position to have something that disfiguring. One may also speculate that those who go that far in service to their country end up with very good retirement packages. :teeth:

If such things ever become possible (not plasma cannons and other trek like tech, but cyberenhancements) I do wonder how our society would use it. Only for the handicapped? Handicaps and soldiers? Restricted commercial use under severe regulations? Or what?

A question: How much energy can they really store to be of practical use?

I wonder if Corduan would even remember what he first said about Eidolon. It's been a while.

He might if he saw the page again. I think he has a lot on his mind, ya know? :wink:

Now you just need to decide whether you're going to spell it as "Briony" or "Bryony".

:hehe: The Y will stick. For some reason the I spelling doesn't make sense to me.

I'm loving the conclusion. Would you be willing to clarify, though, the thoughts going through Brom's and Felicity's minds when they find out that Brom's great-grandmother gave Eidolon driving lessons?

Hmm. Maybe at your age this wouldn't happen, but when I was as old as you are now, "great-grandma is driving" usually meant you put on several layers of seatbelts, because driving was such a wild and hazardous exercise in past years, and she drove like it was so.

Darth Executor

September 30th 2006, 05:13 PM

Maybe JP is working in a plot twist by giving Tyra a sex change and having her turn out to be Darthex. :hrm:

jpholding

September 30th 2006, 05:20 PM

Maybe JP is working in a plot twist by giving Tyra a sex change and having her turn out to be Darthex. :hrm:

*cough* :glare: Having you been smoking something with Doubting John?

Darth Executor

September 30th 2006, 05:24 PM

No but I have to go to a baptism and spend the evening in a suit with people I either don't know or don't like. Does that count? :teeth:

September 30th 2006, 05:30 PM

jpholding

September 30th 2006, 05:50 PM

One last message before I sign off for the day...

No but I have to go to a baptism and spend the evening in a suit with people I either don't know or don't like. Does that count? :teeth:

With a necktie?

That by itself is enough to judge that you will be clinically insane before the day is over. You are granted absolution for your insolence. :solly: Pepper will be conducting a rescue mission if it drags on for too long.

The new page style definitely gets my approval.

Great! :thumb: Plus one. I notified my expert consult too.

At the bottom of this message I'll put those note boxes I designed.

Speaking of the conference has reminded me to send Jeff an e-mail to pester him about that CD of mp3 files. I can't speak for anyone else, but I sure haven't gotten one yet. Would you happen to have heard anything regarding that, O great and venerable conference speaker?

Not a peep. :huh: I probably should say something.

An even more important question: Why weren't JP and I invited?

You want to wear a suit? You go right ahead. :bomb:

[attachment=1][attachment=2][attachment=3][attachment=4]

Darth Executor

September 30th 2006, 10:27 PM

With a necktie?

Lord have mercy no. Especially after I was reading the Gospel of Mojo Jojo the other day and it said Judas died from wearing one.

That by itself is enough to judge that you will be clinically insane before the day is over. You are granted absolution for your insolence. :solly: Pepper will be conducting a rescue mission if it drags on for too long.

Well, she showed up, but instead of rescuing me she ate my grapes and watermelon slices then left.

Darth Executor

September 30th 2006, 10:28 PM

An even more important question: Why weren't JP and I invited?

You like sitting around watching old people dance while wishing you were in an iron maiden?

jpholding

October 2nd 2006, 11:06 AM

My expert consult suggested a more heroic pose for Brom and an increase in font size in one place but otherwise gave the page design a thumbs up.

So now it'll be time for RP #5. Given my schedule I will to have the first update Wednesday (not Tuesday as I figured). Page revamps will keep me busy also in this matter. I won't have any needing feedback for a while since changing the old page presentations will take some time.

Darth Executor

October 2nd 2006, 01:46 PM

Are the revamps necessary?

jpholding

October 2nd 2006, 02:05 PM

Are the revamps necessary?

I'd say yes, if this is to be presented to a wider readership. I mean, with as much junk as there is passing around out there, it's necessary to stand out a bit from the crowd.

The good news is that page presentation revamp doesn't take as long as I expected. I'll have ST #4 pages revamped by tomorrow (I won't post it, though, until Nov. 30 since the page links to the Alamanac and Subscriber pages won't work for a while yet).

Leonhard

October 2nd 2006, 02:10 PM

No doubt. I came up with the idea of a "disfigurement quotient" at the last minute when typing the dialogue. I have not decided what is "too far" but would suspect that it is assumed that Tyra's choice is not "too far" for one in her field, while it would be too much for someone in a lesser position to have something that disfiguring. One may also speculate that those who go that far in service to their country end up with very good retirement packages.

Personally I don't understand why a simple synthetic coat of fur wouldn't be possible. Atleast to hide the worst of it, but then again, the waste heat from the plasma cannons might melt it right off, but what about the Feranine implant?

"Disfigurement quotient" hmm... Is it measured as the surface of the person that is synthetic, divided by total surface of the person? It reminds me Deus Ex where many exsoldiers enjoyed a good retirement and a great deal of respect from people, though they were othen horribly disfigurered, or still had their implants.

A question: How much energy can they really store to be of practical use?

What the batteries? Sorry Holding, we mostly do research into catalysts here at out university, but I think one of the professors, might be able to answer the question. I'll get back to you on it.

What is intended in the future, is for the implants to power themselves with either the adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP), which is the power currency within our bodies, or the various nutrients floating around. It depends of the implant of course, computer circuits and sensors wouldn't eat much power, but high power synthetic muscles and uplinks, might eat more than the body can steadily supply. The millitary isn't planning on putting such things inside their soldiers though, but instead would have them wear it as an exoskeleton suit. So Beamer wouldn't need to pluck himself into an outlet, but Tyra might need to swap powercells now and again, or recharge very slowly by her own body power.

I have always thought increasing human strength by implanting synthetic muscles is a bad idea. Imagine Holding, if you received muscles that could lift ten tons, but if you ever tried to do that your bones would break. They can only lift about 900 kilogram before damaging. Then you would have to swap your bones and then you'll face new problems with your blood system, and so on... Perhaps this is the story of the S'klan, no?

Hmm, just a guess, but was the curse placed on the tilkriegs their short and crawling stature? It would make sense if they where bad leaders and they where then changed to reflect this. Its hard to bark orders at someone if your only two feet tall. Just a guess though :teeth: