Butch's ever wandering mind

How was 2011 for me?

2011-12-30T09:10:00.000-08:00

I did not even think of doing this entry... at least, not yet. After all, 2011 still has a few days left - but then the counter argument would be do I forsee myself making dramatic changes that will dramatically affect how I feel for 2011? Not really... so I guess now's as good as any time until 2012 creeps in.

So, how was 2011 for me? Good question. As I try to think back, I find it really hard to come up with a definite 'Great!' or 'Sucks!' idea. In fact, I'd even venture to say it was 'All right, I guess' - kind of answer. And yes, with emphasis on the 'I guess' part as well, because 2011 - they year that was, was... okay. It wasn't a bad year... but it wasn't really a good one either. Its a mixed reaction, really.

On work:

This year wasn't spectacular on training - just like last year... and we were still on the seeming receiving end of said training short stick. When the client said jump, our handler would jump. In fact, when we would give feedback on improvements, we'd be brushed off as complainers - ones too spoiled for an old set-up... even if that particular set up was much better. Later, we would - in one way or another, be proven right, and we'd still be in the losing end of the deal because the point we were stating would just be swept under the rug. When the client made a mistake (and in this case, it was a gross foul up) we ended up having to work extra hard to help them fix things.

What did we get out of it? Sore throats, tired bodies... and for some, we even got sick out of sheer exhaustion. What did we get back? A certificate of recognition? And even the process of this certificate giving was... to put it mildly, questionable.

On the plus side, we finally got an ally in Accenture by way of Sheila - now, we won't just be trampled, because these power trippers realize we're friends with their new boss. how long this will last, though is anyone's guess. Suffice it to say, for the effort we're giving, we're not getting as much as we deserve... and training still remains a poor priority in Accenture. More often, its like they do the training conducts just for the sake of 'number of conduct' metrics.

Its definitely more than enough for us to seek other avenues of revenue - and speaking of this, 2011 also saw me join an Accenture project - the U2K2 SAP implementation in Unilever, Philippines. I would like to think I held out on my own as long as possible in a very tightly scheduled project. I mean, think of it... I get rolled in expecting some support - and the only person who can give me a semblance of support leaves the project out of frustration to the regional team. I'm in a position that makes me coordinate stuff with everyone - in an environment I'm not too familiar with, and with people I don't know. I'm given some tasks beyond my expected (by NGL) area of responsibility, and I hardly get support from anyone. I'm expected to be on top of the situation with everything - yet I can hardly control, or keep tabs with everything and everyone.

There comes a time when I'm just too tired - and the pace does not slacken. I make mistakes, and get reprimanded - even if I'm just receiving the data. If I wasn't being paid more, I would have seriously reconsidered staying in the project. As it was, I did it to make sure I could save up for Bryce's tuition, and you could say this project came in the right time, as it allowed me to cover the greater expenses so barbie could help her dad with his hospitalization.

On the plus side, I learned more about Accenture projects - as it was my first exposure to one. I definitely understood what was lacking to make me better deliver, but being a consultant makes me rather low in the power totem pole. I see my easing out as a possible political maneuver - to make some people smell better. To be honest, I was also not in the best of health when I joined, so I had some difficulties as well. I was less experienced, but was compensating... but as I said, this was a learning spike. Had I a second go at it, I'm sure I could function a whole lot better, knowing what I do now. But will that happen? I don't know. Still, I'm thankful for the opportunity - and I'm a better facilitator in sharing some experiences and understanding the ideas and methodologies for it.

On learning new stuff:

I don't think I learned a lot of new stuff - aside from the U2K2 experience, I think I read less technical or behavioral-related books this year than last. I mean, aside from Covey's new book (The 3rd Alternative) - which I am currently stuck in the middle of... and the 'Influencer: Power to Change Anything' audio book which I soldiered through just these past two to three weeks, I can hardly think of any other book I've read and learned from... so much for lasting impressions, I guess.

I did make some headway with being a better photographer - and I've got some great shots to prove it. What I lack will be a vision whenever I go take a shot. Right now, I'm more reactive... though I do inject some inputs... its more like shoot what I see and hope some come out right. Still, I am learning, and I may save up for some lighting equipment. So you see, 2011 wasn't a total loss or waste.

On family:

I'd have to consider this a status quo - granted, Bryce is now in College, and it fills me with some pride to see him doing okay in La Salle... specially after a rather rocky start. I've tried supporting him, and in one instance, I was able to really help him debug a program. But as he shifts to medicine, he will be entering fields I am not familiar with.

Bernice seems to be running on automatic - and my influence has been rather minimal, in fact I suspect that had it not been for her occasional need for allowances or gimmick funds, we'd hardly talk. Recently, though, I may have found some leeway as I support an interest of hers - that is, fashion shoots. I also did allow her to recently go on an out of town trip with her classmates. A show of trust on my end... though I think I need to talk to her about openly displaying herself. I feel she needs to be a tad more conservative. I like that she reads books - and will willingly spend for her new books as long as I can do so.

Barbie lost her dad fairly recently, and despite the costs due to hospitalization and medicine, I steered clear of that hot button, lest I get Barbie's ire. To say I'm glad he finally found peace might even get a negative (read as scathing and sarcastic) remark form her. So to keep the peace, I just protect the family's interest. Now that he's gone, there's still a seeming adjustment period. Her mom frequently visits us... and that's okay with me, because as she distracts her mom form thinking about her dad, the same hold true for her. She needs these distractions to keep her from thinking too much. Hopefully, 2012 will afford such distractions.

Mom's been fine and coping... Papa's likewise doing okay (but just okay like me), I feel that I've not spent a lot of time with them - given my very busy project schedule and Barbie's family's needs. It was nice for my folks to separately show support. Now I feel that I should be around them more often. I have to make that happen more next year.

On interests:

I still read and collect comics. In fact, this recent DC revamp has me getting a lot more titles - but I'm starting to trim down on these. I have recently started to be a bit more aggressive with trade collections - in fact, my top library bookshelf is full beyond capacity with these trades.

Books have been a steady stream of interests... in fact, just today, I'm collecting older Matthew Riley books about a seeming character he's created 'The Scarecrow'. After all, I did like his 7-6-5 book series, and if his earlier works have the same pacing, then I'm in for a great ride. I've also been reading the new Star Trek adventures.

On the DVD front, I find that I've yet to watch one movie since the Christmas break started. I've more often than not watched these movies in DVD format. Only saving the real hits fore the big screen. I mean, with movie prices the way they are, I do make it a point to think twice (and thrice) before spending on a movie - specially if I can wait 6 months; or less, for the DVD to appear. I may not be seeing it on the big screen, but I can pause, review a scene and yes... repeat the movie. So what were the biggies? Thor, Captain America, Harry Potter's last movie, and um the latest Twilight film. I'm sure there's more... but I can't recall right now.

On being me:

I still need to exercise more often. The exercise machine given to Barbie lately (for her 20th year in JJMP) will help. I postponed my annual physical - though technically, I shouldn't. I had to, since December was tight.

I have still been organizing the group's Bacardi nights - though I suspect that there have been less Bacardi nights - no surprise, as a great number of these were held at home, and it would still be awkward to have them at home. I mean, I don't mind... but Barbie does.

On the side note, I may be the one my friends listen to - or they're just too lazy to organize one (or it may be both). So that's it... unless I suddenly come up with more 'share-able' stories.

Top Avengers covers between 200 - 299 (part 2)

2011-12-27T09:06:00.000-08:00

Continuing my countdown of the Top Ten covers for Avengers covering issues 200 to 299. If you missed the first part of this, you can always go to this link: Top Ten Avengers 200-299 pt1. And so we move on:

Number 5 - Issue 290

This is number five because of several reasons... 1) it shows the Avengers plus a few guest stars (in this case, Marina and Machine Man) individually contained in cubes and unable to get out - and boy, if that does not pique your interest... 2) it shows the Captain (Steve Rogers' persona), signifying that he's in this story - even if he isn't actively in the team's roster; and for fans following the title, they will know he's been away - for readers not following the title, they will be drawn to what is obviously a new costume for 'Captain America'... 3) though this is for die hard fans, it shows an Avengers antagonist long time not seen - the Super Adaptoid, seemingly triumphant and showing new powers than simply just absorbing the heroes collective powers. So how cool is that?

The cover also happens to be drawn by John Buscema - most possibly the perennial Avengers artist when one considers the history of this title (you see, as of this issue's release, George Perez would still not have done his second coming to the title - and even if he did, fans - including me, would be torn to consider if George or John would be the perennial artist for this title)... hence my 'most possibly' statement.

Again the cover gives one a hint of what to expect within the issue's pages - and captured though they seem to be by a very powerful enemy, die hard fans will naturally expect the Avengers to somehow escape and win the day... its just a matter of how. Steve's inclusion, even if just as a guest was a great pull - specially in his Captain uniform, somehow conveys to me the need to have either Cap, IM or Thor in any incarnation of the team... not that I'm selling Captain Marvel and company short... its just a fanboy preference.

Number 4 - Issue 223

Talk about cover impact... this issue has got to be one attention getter. I can't remember if the Distinguished Competition has ever used an Atom - Green Arrow team up that made GA make Atom ride his arrow - somehow I think they did... but I can't recall exactly when. Still, even if such a team up happened, I never saw a cover as dramatically presenting such a team up as this Avengers cover. I mean, seeing Hawkeye and Antman... both looking intense as they execute the 'ride the arrow' stunt.

By this cover alone, I was definitely hooked to look inside the comic - and hoped that the story inside conveyed the drama and promised action that the cover seemed to promise. After all, how often do they execute such a move? And for what reason?

As the title blurb indicates 'Somebody's gonna to get it', and with a cover like this, it sort of made a promise to some great action scenes. Another reason I liked the concept of this cover is the fact that I don't think Hawkeye and Antman have been teamed up as often as I can remember, so this was definitely not only intense looking - but unique.

Number 3 - Issue 221

I don't know if this is the first time they've tried this kind of a cover. I mean, the Avengers line-up changes has been as much a tradition as, say Jarvis being part of the mansion (or tower, or mansion again), but I wonder if this was the very first time this kind of marketing gimmick was used... and I'm too lazy to check - anyway the use of the line-up change announcement plus mug shots of possible candidates does catch one's interest.

Funny... back then it was unimaginable to have Wolverine or Doc Strange join... and I don't think the same would be said for the Invisible Woman (then still referred to as the Invisible Girl) - so could it be possible that this cover was a sort of an oracle for things to come decades later? Who knows. I mean, look at the top row and just remove Dazzler. See?

Still, it was a nice attention grabber... and seeing many faces with the possible hint of two characters in the mug shots would be Avengers within the issue itself? Well, lets just say I was hooked to find out more.

Number 2 - Issue 255

Think about it... a painted cover! Around this time, such a style was basically a novel idea - and to actually usher in the arrival of John Buscema, not just as the cover artist, but the issue's artist as well... paired off with Tom Palmer! Would I have possibly missed out on this milestone of an issue had I not been following the title? I'd like to think yeah... I would have taken notice - simply because of the issue's cover.

The line up of Cap, Herc and Black Knight also somehow ushers back the team line up during John's first tour of duty in this title. With the addition of Starfox and Captain Marvel, plus the starfield cover background, this issue promises a space adventure in the offing - at least, that's my interpretation.

Honestly, though, had this issue's painted cover been slightly more action-oriented... one with greater impact, I would have chosen it as number 1. The fact that it reached number 2 is a testament to John Buscema's beautifully painted cover work.

Number 1 - Issue 276

Talking about a more action-oriented cover, this is why I chose this particular issue to be number 1, its got an intense looking Thor ready to pound some heads, ably supported by Captain America, Captain Marvel, the Black Knight... and Doctor Druid? Again, as line-up considerations come into play, I would have had question the wisdom of adding Druid - then again, he was just a guest, so it was a way for me to find out more about the character. Prior to his showing up in Avengers, Druid was a tabula rasa to me.

Once again, we have John Buscema and Tom Palmer to thank for such a great cover, and as I previously said, this topped the previously mentioned painted cover (by a slight margin) because it was more action oriented. After all, who wouldn't be thrilled with the return of Thor to the title? Sporting a beard at that! This is, of course, picking up from a blank knowledge perspective - but... followers of the title would know that this was the second round of the battle between the Avengers and the Masters of Evil that had besieged Avengers Mansion, so this was the start of payback. Thor being in the issue meant a set of much needed muscles and fire power (in a manner of speaking) against the same Master who put a very inebriated and drugged Hercules to the hospital.

So... there you have it. The top ten covers from Avenger's next hundred issues. I'll eventually make the third part which will cover issues 300 to 399, but not now. I barely squeezed this out during the holiday season's lull. Maybe in January. Until then, Avengers Assemble!

Top Avengers covers between 200 - 299 (part 1)

2011-12-08T04:30:00.000-08:00

This entry continues my selections for top Avengers covers. These are, of course, my personal choices - there may not be any science involved is said selection, and it may come as a surprise to others as to why I may have chosen one cover and not another. The answer is simple... the cover was chosen because it appealed to me in a visual manner - meaning, had I passed a comic store and saw these titles for the first time, they would possibly elicit a 'wow!' from me. After all, in purchasing a comic - though the cover isn't the be all and end all of the selection, it's what initially draws the attention... and in said attention gotten, it can make a difference in whether the comic's issue would be bought or not. Anyway, off to the countdown.

Number 10 - issue 200

I rarely like anniversary covers - more often than not, they don't really convey what is happening inside the issue, since the creative team would most likely want to emphasize the milestone number rather than what the story may entail. Unfortunately, this issue is no exception, however... it also happens to be an issue done by Gentleman George Perez, and despite its seeming campiness (probably because of the Beast).

But setting aside the large 200 (which was meant more like an advertisement for the title's longevity), one can't help but realize why George was so popular with the fans - I mean, look at those master strokes... the details. You can't really call that artwork hokey. Iron Man, the Scarlet Witch, Ms. Marvel... these three are drawn masterfully - and lets not forget the Vision seemingly flying in between the title and the number. So yeah... just because its George and his ability to squeeze in a lot of Avengers, this cover makes my list.

Number 9 - issue 201

Another George Perez masterpiece - and what makes it unique (from a whimsy standpoint) is the fact that Jarvis is the focus of the cover. Looking at the said cover begs the question 'what exactly is Jarvis referring to?' as he makes a near heroic pose - armed with nothing but a vacuum cleaner... as the assembled Avengers watch with a bemused manner - well, with exception to the Vision and Iron Man.

Again, the art is masterfully done - actually, more so than issue 200's rendition; in fact, I had to do a double take to make sure it was the same George Perez doing said art for this issue (it's definitely not John Byrne, that's for sure)... perhaps the inker? Most likely the difference is because of the inker. Or maybe George had more time to come up with this cover? After all, its possible that the cover of 200 might have been changed - hence the semi-rushed look. Whatever the case, the cover got my attention among all the other covers - which was more than enough to include it in the top ten.

Number 8 - issue 204

Trapped in the island of the Yellow Claw calls attention due to its action. Here we see a larger than life Yellow Claw - a villain who's been around since the pulp fiction days, which may have added to my interest - but given the possibility of it being any other villain, its how said villain stuck a pose that is threatening (despite his just seemingly standing there - which can be interpreted as an image gloating while the battle rages), possibly due to the visage presented by the Yellow Claw, and the drones which are attacking the Avengers.

I'm at a loss as to who the cover artist is, but the feeling conveyed by said cover's action is one that seems to promise a serious and intense battle within the issue's pages After all, isn't that the purpose of covers? To somehow convey what the issue promises?

Number 7 - issue 292

It Came from the Depths shows another action oriented cover. People who aren't following the story will just assume that the Avengers are arriving hot with the Quinjet - including Thor who's riding the jet's top for reasons I can only guess at as opposed to using Mjolnir and flying independently like Captain (Monica) Marvel - but admit it... this adds to the sense of urgency as the Quinjet can travel much faster - and apparently, speed was needed in this situation.

In reality, said monster is Marina - former Alpha Flight member, bride to Namor; who is currently an Avenger on leave. So knowing this gives the cover an added sense of urgency - this is not just a monster that should be stopped, but a friend who should be saved. A task that may not be so easy to do, considering Marina's strength - a fact presented in the cover by way of showing her ramming (or biting off) a portion of the battle ship. The other Avengers at this point are the Black Knight, Doctor Druid and the She-hulk, so this roster (with exception to Thor) does not seemingly boast of too strong a line-up... hence another concern by those that follow the exploits of this team.

Number 6 - issue 254

Ultimate Vision shows a sneering face of the Vision (who is in virtual form as he has tapped and taken control of all the computers in the U.S. - if not the world), while the Avengers are seemingly floating around - helpless. So definitely, this is a dramatic cover that conveys what is happening in the issue - it summarizes the situation very clearly... the problem is not a villain as we know it. The problem is an avenger gone bad.

Coloring the entire cover - with exception to the Vision's face; which is just in black and white, further emphasizes the visage of the Vision as a seemingly uncaring (though ironically feeling) synthezoid.

The Vision's actions here will eventually have repercussions which will lead to his being disassembled by government scientists in the pages of West Coast Avengers.

Top Avengers covers between 100 - 199 (part 2)

2011-10-28T21:04:00.000-07:00

This is the second part of my countdown to the Ten best covers of Avengers from issues 100 to 199.

Number 5 - issue 190

This cover shows a lot of action - as the Avengers (plus Daredevil) try to stop what seems to be an alien life form (its not) from seemingly just rampaging in the docks - and not exactly succeeding as Captain America, and the Beast are being tossed aside (either that or they're dodging the supposed blow in their own unique style), while Iron Man seems pinned down and the rest of them - Wasp, Ms. Marvel and the Vision are joining the fray.

The art is by then getting to be legendary artist - John Byrne with (I suspect) inks by Tom Palmer or Joe Rubinstein. Even the mastheads are a John Byrne rendition of the Avengers including the Falcon (who is not in the cover - probably doing monitor duty).

Byrne's dynamism shows in how his heroes are anatomically presented - Ms Marvel is sexy yet muscular, the Vision is seen rushing in form the right end of the cover and even considering the Wasp's wingspan being almost twice her body length to be able to lift her and make her fly. It is therefore no surprise that John's covers will show up again in this list.

Number 4 - issue 190

This cover shows the Beast passing on an antidote to the Vision as the latter is turning intangible to enter an unconscious and enlarged Yellow Jacket as Thor and the Scarlet Witch look on - unable to do anything else.

For long time Avengers fans - this represents a pleasant reversal of roles, as Hank Pym, then using his Antman persona, had to once enter the Vision to find out what was wrong with him.

For X-men fans, this was Hank McCoy doing what he did best - reminding everyone that he too, was a biochemist, and in this instance, he was using his mind to solve a problem to help his fellow Avenger. For Avengers fans who were still seeing the Beast as an X-man just hanging around the Avengers mansion, it represented the first step in realizing that the Beast had other things to contribute to the team aside from jokes.

The title blurb was a bit confusing though... and may have been better served if it was Invasion into the 50-foot hero = not of... but then again, who know? Maybe Yellow Jacket did invade something - after all, its been a long time since I've read this particular issue.

Number 3 - issue 186

As covers go, this one shows a captured Scarlet Witch being part of a magical spell - cast in a crucifix pose, possibly as a sacrifice, while the rest of her teammates who are not aware and nowhere near to help her... are simply represented by their floating heads (which are basically an enlarged version of their mastheads, lined up at the cover's left margin).

Adding to the danger is the fact that the antagonist in this cover is Mordred the Mystic - and as any fan of the Scarlet Witch knows, Wanda is at best a dabbler - and not a full mystic. So she seems to be in a situation in which she's way over her head in.

Again, the cover - and expression of Wanda looking helplessly up, is greatly crafted by John Byrne. The background being a barren, perhaps snowy area - so yeah... the mood is likewise set by the colors. So as far as scenes go, this one promises to bring suspense - maybe even the success of the villain in affecting the Scarlet Witch. One therefore wonders if the Avengers can help her in time - and to do that, they need but peek inside the issue... that said, this cover is a definite tease and piques any fan's curiosity. But then again, isn't that what covers are supposed to do?

Number 2 - issue 184

Yes, this is another John Byrne cover (he is that good an artist), and this one doesn't really represent a heavy hitter, as far villain are concerned. After all Crusher Creel is a Thor villain - so why the need for an entire Avengers team? Yet here he is... seemingly larger than usual and teeming with power... and the Avengers are hard pressed to stop him.

The Avengers, at this juncture, happen to be Hawkeye, Iron Man, Vision, Ms. Marvel, the Beast and the Wasp. So this lineup has at least two heavy hitters and the rest aren't exactly push overs.

I can't recall what the Absorbing Man absorbed to become this much a threat to the Avengers, but obviously, this cover shouts action (similar to that of a movie's director when filming a scene starts), but Byrne's dynamism once again makes this cover a favorite. Never has Crusher Creel looked so formidable and dangerous, and never has the Avengers seemingly looked unable to stop a villain. Truth to tell, I did not expect this cover to be one of my top picks - but as I compared it to the others, I surprisingly saw myself choosing it over other more familiar covers.

And now... drum roll please!

Number 1 - issue 187

This cover says it all, the Avengers caught and floating helplessly - held motionless and upside down, by a spell seemingly concocted by a villain who has possessed the Scarlet Witch - seen laughing triumphantly. No need for word balloons here - in fact, the silence adds to its impact.

The Avengers - in this case, Captain America, Ms. Marvel, the Falcon, Quicksilver, the Wasp and Wonderman, are here to rescue Wanda, but the possession makes the task more difficult, as they need to find a way to defeat the villain 'Chthon' without hurting Wanda. Whoa... moment, right?

This could very well be a Halloween story as the cover promises intense and scary moments ahead. Chthon - by the way Wanda is acting is obviously a malevolent force, and the near darkness surrounding her - while the Avengers are relatively brightly lit, hints at the depths of Wanda's predicament and Chthon's darkness.

If the cover is any indicator, the story itself is one great adventure, making the Witch on Wundagore Mountain an instant hit and easily one of my favorite Avengers stories ever written and drawn. But don't take my word on it... try to find the compilation or if you like looking for back issues - try getting this two-part story.

Top Avengers covers between 100 - 199 (part 1)

2011-10-28T19:41:00.000-07:00

Continuing my coverage of what to me are the top Avengers covers, I've not compiled what my favorites are between 100 - 199. At first I was worried, as this period had a lot of really great covers... and a lot of mediocre ones as well, which was sort of frustrating because there were a great many milestones that (at least in hindsight) definitely deserved better covers. Oh well... Lets start with the countdown.

Number 10 - issue 181

A landmark issue and this makes the cut because of the sheer number of Avengers appearing on this cover. Definitely a strong pull for any reader... and maybe even a passer-by or two. After all, its rare that you see that many Avengers in a seeming crowded scene mingling around the Avengers' meeting table.

Plus, lets face it... gentleman George Perez really makes crowded scenes (I count 22 heroes, though I have to point out that the scene includes the Guardians of the Galaxy - so purists will insist on only 17 Avengers) look real good - all the way to this mysterious person announcing the need for a drastic cut in membership - the mysterious person being none other than Agent Gyrich. So if only because of this fact that George did this cover, makes it even more desirable a cover for me (though not the top one as is quite obvious at this point).

The issue itself is a milestone by way of limiting the active Avengers to just seven - a number that they've for the most of their duration, respected. Though I suspect it was to also give some sanity back to the writer by being able to better focus on just seven main characters.

Number 9 - issue 166

This cover speaks of drama! I mean, how couldn't it? We see Count Nefaria - a 2nd rate leader of villains with little to offer in any battle, except maybe giving orders, suddenly transformed into someone who can absorb the blows of Mjolnir! Holy leaping lizards B, er... sorry wrong comic universe. But you have to admit, even the cover shows a stumped Thor (though inside the comic, the story unfolds into a very wonderful manner showing a rather scared Nefaria slowly realizing Thor's hammer isn't actually hurting him).

So the cover definitely begs of a double take - making sure we... the readers see what we're actually seeing. Adding to the drama, is how the Vision is poised to jump into the fray, coming in from behind Nefaria... but will he be enough to stop this new and more powerful incarnation of Nefaria? If that was not what was lurking at the back of your mind as you saw the cover - I don't know what will make you excited. Nefaria's new look is courtesy of John Byrne, who would be the regular penciler for Avengers at this point in time. I can't place the cover credits though. Great issue... complemented by this great looking cover which announces the fact :Nefaria Supreme!

Number 8 - issue 127

As covers go, this was definitely draw with great impact... then again, we are talking about Gil Kane - a great artist around the time this issue came out. Plus the fact that this story has both the Inhumans and the Fantastic Four showing up and fighting side-by-side with the Avengers... well, lets just say it would be foolish not to pick this issue up. This cover hints at the action within the issue's pages as it literally entices people to pick it up.

But back to the cover. What I liked about it is the dynamism, and the fact that the reader is placed front and center in the way of the charge led by Thor and flanked by both the Vision and the Thing and backed up by the Torch, Blackbolt and Mr. Fantastic at the rear - whoa... this screams "out of the way!" lest you end up flying being tossed aside like those purple clad flunkies (as only how Gil Kane can draw them too).

This issue - as its cover blur displays, definitely promises Havoc in the Hidden Land (of Attilan).

Number 7 - issue 116

Avengers versus Defenders! This was a milestone clash of two teams, and although the Avengers were considered as Earth's Mightiest Heroes - that title could certainly be put to the test when faced with the likes of Dr. Strange, Namor, the Hulk and Silver Surfer!

Though this crossover happened in both titles, and through three months, one Avengers cover stands out among the rest - that being the Surfer versus the Vision and Scarlet Witch atop a volcano (an idea that apparently preceded that of Star Wars' battle between Obi Wan and Anakin by decades).

And an interesting battle it really was - albeit considering that the Surfer was holding back, and that his victory was only because Wanda was in danger and the Vision had to help her first. Still... the cover's drama covers it all and more (although the blurb might be a bit overly dramatic in stating the 'to the death' part).

Even the colors leap out to add to the fiery drama. I can't place the artist for this cover... I'd think it was Sal Buscema, maybe heavily aided by an inker. The reason I hesitate is because Sal rarely hits a homer as great as this cover... and if it is Sal's work, then boy was he really inspired to create it. If not... well, its a great cover - otherwise it wouldn't get to the top 10 of my choice.

Number 6 - issue 195

This issue is unique in the fact that it shows three insect-themed heroes... two of them having never teamed up in the first place (at least, in an Avengers book). I'm talking about Ant Man and Yellow Jacket of course, as they try to free a captured and unconscious Wasp.

Add to this tidbit, the fact that this issue's cover (and interiors) are by George Perez, and you've got a really good issue - and cover at that! I like the all out action by way of the ants and yellow jackets swarming the bad guys - seemingly being overrun; obviously being led by the two small sized heroes as they free the Wasp from some kind of lab (I assume its a lab with all those equipment in the background).

I mean, lets face it... these guys are hardly noticed in the power department - so its a welcome treat to show that the statement 'small but terrible' definitely applies to these guys. The interiors are equally breathtaking, as this is the time when George is really showing us what a great artist he is - complete with a near perfect attention to detail. Definitely showing us early signs of what made him a great artist when he later handled the Teen Titans.

So that's it, the bottom half of this little collection. Just to share a little trivia, it was much harder to select through this batch (issues 100 - 199) because so many dramatic milestones happened to the Avengers within this time frame, that I was sorely tempted to select covers representing the milestones. However, I took a step back and reminded myself that despite these milestones, it was the covers I was focusing on. In that regard, I was a bit worried somewhere in the middle of this batch as the covers were seemingly drawn in a haphazard manner - thus not meeting my criteria. Lucky for me, the better covers suddenly came out with a vengeance at the latter part, and I then had to trim down from my favorites until I got to my personal 10 best covers - the top half of which is coming next.

Top Avengers covers between 1 - 99 (part 2)

2011-09-03T06:39:00.000-07:00

Continuing my personal Top 10 Avengers covers of the first 99 issues...

Number 5 - issue #73

You could say that this is the reverse of the cover with floating heads technique, wherein the foreground would show the hero fighting while heads of the rest of the team would be floating (see issue 60 for a sample of floating heads).

This time, the Avengers are monitoring what is happening to their teammate - the Black Panther, once again seemingly helpless to jump into battle (just an assumption of course).

The foreground shows four of the Avengers (Goliath, Yellowjacket, Wasp and the Vision - the only one not showing any emotion as he belabors the obvious) in a seemingly unlit room monitoring a battle between T'chala and the Sons of the Serpent.

Whoever thought of this concept was creative in giving the room a bluish monochromatic effect while giving focus to the porthole shaped monitor by rendering its view in full color. That artistic choice of coloration alone catapults this cover to the number five spot.

Number 4 - issue #96

What's there not to like about this issue's cover? It promises a lot of action, and the drama of the story is definitely more telling with the rendition of said Avengers by fan favorite (although at that time, not yet quite knows, but quickly getting there) Neal Adams.

This happens to be one of the earlier Avengers covers (and comic) I got my hands on - and if you think the art is stunning here, you should see the insides.

One other impact this cover has to fans of the title, its where they see the Vision - supposedly cold and calculating, explode with rage - venting it out on the helpless Skrull, who is, albeit - colored wrongly. Oh well...

One last item - the Andromeda swarm was a title of a movie in the Seventies, so its not a surprise that they used the title of said movie to showcase the Avengers in space.

Number 3 - issue 57

It takes a very special cover to break the monopoly of an otherwise top 3 Neal Adams cover stranglehold (can I help it if he really does great art?), and the cover to issue 57 is just such a cover.

Here is where we see the Vision for the very first time in the covers of any Avengers comic. And just to make sure its dramatic enough, we've got the purely monochromatic red (and variations of such color) to be the only color - and no, black and white are more shades than colors.

We see a large version of the Vision (wearing his Mr. Spock-like face) with the Avengers seemingly reeling from this character's strength, or clouds or what have you. I mention it this way because it will be the first time the Avengers encounter this new threat - and later, this noble character.

As far as comics go, this is John Buscema at his peak.

Number 2 - issue 93

Another 'team rushing into another team' cover - albeit taken from the vantage point of being in one side... this time - the Avengers' side of this intergalactic war later dubbed as the Kree-Skrull War.

The villains they're fighting? Three members of the Fantastic Four... well, actuall... Skrulls disguised as the Fantastic Four's male members... relatively fresh from having defeated the Vision and the Scarlet Witch - who are down on the ground presumed to be unconscious. From this backdrop the Skrulls are bracing for round two - but this time, they face the Big 3 (Cap, Thor, Iron Man).

Once again, Neal Adams shines with this issue, which, by the way, happens to be a thicker issue - as an unofficial Giant sized story (and what a story it is too!).

And the number one issue cover - when comparing the first 99 issues is... issue #92!

Who can believe how this cover announces the end of the Avengers... what?! There must be some mistake! And the fact that its a Neal Adams drawn cover, helps build the drama. Heck, he even draws Iron Man with the nose in a noble-like stance. For that matter - Thor and Captain America, likewise stand alert as they (including Iron Man) observe how the rest of the Avengers, namely Clint, Vision, Scarlet Witch and Pietro, move away from Thor et al, with bowed heads.

Just the mere possibilities of the Avengers battling each other - that would have been a sight to behold.

Of course, the truth may very well hurt as the three Avengers are actually Skrulls in disguise, thus making the other four Avengers realize the whole farce of it all. Unfortunate for them... as this split definitely weakens the team - leading to the capture of Pietro and Wanda by the Kree.

Ah... but we're not here to talk contents - just covers... and any cover by Neal Adams turns into a masterpiece.

Top Avengers covers between 1 - 99 (part 1)

2011-09-02T06:40:00.000-07:00

I'll admit to being inspired by Justin Carmona's article on comicsbulletin.com wherein he came up with his Top 10 Avengers covers - some of which I liked, others I beg to differ with. But rather than complain, I decided ot come up with my own Top 10... however, I found myself liking a lot of covers, that I've decided to come up with my favorites in groupings first. Therefore, I'll have several write-ups about these covers - maybe up to 5, to say the least; assuming there would be a coverage of my choices from 100 covers every article until we reach the fairly recent ones.

If you wish to read up on Justin's article, see this link: Top 10 Avengers Covers by Justin

As for me, here are my 'personal' Top Ten from the first 99 issues (at least, the bottom half, namely from numbers 10 to 6):

Number 10 is issue #20

I liked the idea of seeing Captain America being seemingly hurled by the issue's villain, namely the Swordsman, as Cap's fellow Avengers stare in shock and seeming helplessness.

Yet if you look closely, Cap's face is anything but calm - you could almost imagine him planning how to get out of this predicament. A definite attention-getting cover to any passers-by.

Needless to say, one has to wonder how Captain America will get out of this predicament - hence the need ot read the comic's contents.

If I'm not mistaken, the artist to this cover looks like Jack Kirby, and if so - I have to say that Jack sure draws a noble-looking Cap... not surprising, since he (Jack) does draw Cap as well in his (Cap's) solo title.

Number 9 is issue #60

Talk about covers that grab you? This one feels like its literally strangling the reader and not just the Wasp! And a wedding? For the casual reader, this is another curiosity - for the Avengers fan, this is a milestone... after all, aside from Reed Richards and Sue Storm, who else happens to be married?

Come to think of it, where are the Avengers anyway? The floating heads of the Avengers staring down seem to hint at their not being present - or helpless to stop the really large snake from sinking it's fangs (and presumable poison) into Janet, as her husband to be - the mysterious (at that time) Yellow Jacket is rushing to try and save her.

Once again, the reader is literally drawn into the story - and the byline below the page seems to tease the readers that it may very well happen within this comic's pages.

Number 8 is issue #71

In hindsight, one realizes now that this is a momentous event as it sets the first ever cross-over between the Avengers and the chronologically (in Marvel time) formed team of World War II heroes - the Invaders. Of course, when this comic came out, the Invaders were not even an idea thought out,,, in fact, if you look at Cap's shield - it looks rather different... hinting at the fact that this is Cap of WWII fighting with the Black Panther.

It stands to reason that the Human Torch battling the Vision is Jim Hammond - the original version, and not Johnny Storm from the Fantastic Four.

Lastly, we have Namor battling Yellow Jacket - and you have to wonder how this guy... Yellow Jacket, got the capability to fight the Submariner.

The story is part of a multi-dimensional, multi-temporally manipulated time battle pitting the Avengers against heroes and villains of differing time lines. Whether this becomes the impetus for Roy Thomas to create the Invaders a decade later remains a mystery... but I won't discount the possibility.

Number 7 is issue #70

I'm a sucker for these team rushing headlong into battle covers - I mean, isn't this what the Avengers is all about? Battling either a villain to large for one of them to handle alone... or battling another team - more so if its a team of villains?

Well this issue does have villains - carefully crafted after the JLA... you have Hyperion (the Superman counterpart) fighting it out with Goliath, Whizzer (the Flash of course) vs. Thor, Doctor Spectrum (the Green Lantern amalgam) battling Iron Man and Nighthawk (the Batman of their team) fighting Captain America.

This story happens to be an earlier part of the previous issue I referred to - and in this case, this seems to be a dimension-hopping battle.

Later, the Squadron Sinister would inspire the creation of the 'Good' team - Squadron Supreme. But for now, they're a new team of villains, specifically chosen to battle one half of the team of Avengers (while the other half of the team is sent to WWII).

Number 6 is issue #53

As I said, I'm a sucker for teams rushing headlong into battle - but this time, its not a team form the past or a team from another dimension. It happens to be a team of mutants more popularly known as the X-men, and whatever the reason, it seems that the Angel is rushing from somewhere to stop the fight.

This happens to be the X-men as graduates from Xavier's training, thus the very colorful costumes as opposed to the blue and yellow uniforms they wore while under Xavier's tutelage. Of course, not all of Xavier's graduates have good taste in costumes - as Angel's color combination is horrible.

Being a fan of the X-men, this would have been a sucker bet regarding whether I'd get this issue or not. I mean, two of Marvel's top three teams battling it out? This cover just screams of action - so whatever the reason, this promises Marvel's best teams (at the time of this issue's release) fighting... nuff said.

So there you have it, the bottom half of my Top 10. I decided to cut the blog entry short to make it more manageable - as against coming up with the article filled with 10 issues - which seeming becomes unwieldy. I'll be posting part two in a while, so no worries.

The Avengers, Invaders, Fantastic Four, Squadron Sinister and Squadron Supreme are all characters of Marvel Comics. Batman, Superman, Green Lanters and the Flash are all characters from DC comics. All covers are courtesy of cover browser: Cover Browser - Avengers

Fables... the continuing adventures.

2011-08-30T16:50:00.000-07:00

As a child, have you ever wondered what happened after '...happily ever after."? I mean, think about it... sure the hero (or heroes) won; villain or villains vanquished; magical kingdom restored or recovering... I could go on, but I think you get the picture - right? The more demanding of us would even insist that our parents (or whoever else is supplying the stories) continue - after all, life goes on... why not the fairy tale life as well?

Naturally, as we grew old, the tales lost their inherent magic touch on us - and we simply slipped into the mundane realities that we are so familiar with. But, what if... what is life did indeed go on for our fairy tales? How would it possibly go?

Well, for starters, Bill Willingham has given us a glimpse of such life in the now critically acclaimed 'Fables' - and its so easy to get into the story, seeing as how a lot of the characters in Fable town (yes, that's what they call a part of New York where they live - and yes... I did type out New York) live. Old King Cole is the mayor (no monarchs in the U.S. of A.) and his chief administrator is Snow (White), and that's just for starters. The person keeping the peace happens to be Bigby - and I'll just keep Bigby's little secret - of how he is better known as for a while.

Naturally, what good is a story without a villain? Right? Well, this villain is veiled in shrouded mystery - even the Fables do not know his (or her?) identity - all they know is that they've been caught in a grip of tyrannical conquest, and have escaped to the mundane world... though not all of them were able to make it out - so others are feared captured... possibly even dead.

Being Fables, though, some of them are somehow immortal - for so long as their stories are being told, they will not die. Hence a successful attempt at Snow's life proves the point. Sure she's wounded unto death's door - just for a while, but is soon in the process (albeit slow and painful) of recovery - pretty soon she's back to looking like the fairest of them all.

But even Snow has some secrets - ones she never wants to share, and are only hinted as some stories she tells others (like what exactly befell of the seven dwarves fates), and here - as in many occasions, is where many readers will realize that this fable is not being told for children's sake. Nope - there's the usual intrigue, back stabbing, arguments, spies, promiscuity amongst long time partners - or not, and other stuff best kept to the adults.

After all, if anything is to be gleaned from Willingham's fables, its that our favorite characters are - just like most humans, imperfect. Forced to live out of their realm, and faced with a common threat, they forget past affronts, and have banded together to try survive while experiencing the non-magical realm of the mundanes (keeping themselves secretly hidden in plain sight) and just making a life for themselves.

If you're wondering where to start said adventure, well... the logical point would be at the start of Bill's tale, naturally. Be warned, however, that these tales now number in the hundreds - and I have such great envy for anyone starting to read Fables and their continuing adventures for the very first time.

You might have some difficulties finding past issues of the comicbooks - I did say they were in comicbook format, right? No? Well they are... anyway, if you can't find the comics, then get the trades - in fact, these trades have of recent times, been reprinted into deluxe hardcover versions... and I just got my third volume fairly recently. So I know that anyone who wishes to jump in and read up on the Fables, can easily do just that. After all, I'm a classic example of the latter - deciding to collect the Deluxe trades, rather than the per issue versions. I may not be up to date with what's happening... but that's all right. These stories are still as timeless as the way they started.

I cannot recommend this enough - but be warned, it may still be hard to explain what happens next to a young child, eager to know what happens after "...and they lived happily ever after.", after all, it seems our Fables are still trying to achieve that elusive goal... but then, aren't we all?

Fables is a series of graphic novels published by DC under its Vertigo line. If you wish to see more covers and snippets of plot lines per graphic novel, here's a site you can reference: Fables Graphic Novels

Fantastic goes Future...

2011-08-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

I did a piece some time ago about how I enjoyed what was happening in Johnathan Hickman's run on the Fantastic Four... even pegging it as back to being Fantastic (albeit with w question mark at the end of the sentence as a teaser - but still serious about the statement.

From there, Johnathan continued his fantastic stories, leading up to what I thought would be the War of Four Cities as his ultimate goal. It seems I was wrong, and Johnathan started teasing us with the potential death of a member - heck Marvel started bringing out teasers about this as well. For a while, it seemed that Marvel was creating a guessing game - teasing readers with different posters of only three members - but always showing three different members, so it was really up to the reader to separate hogwash from truth. So here I thought, someone will die in the Four Cities war... ah, wrong again it seems.

Personally, I normally hate it when I'm wrong - but not in this case. It simply means that I have yet to crack the mind of Johnathan Hickman (and what a seemingly convoluted mind this writer has, if you also consider his other works concurrent with Fantastic Four, namely SHIELD and Secret Warriors) - in other words, Hickman surprises me - proves me wrong when I thought I already had a handle on his style, and its this unpredictability that keeps me as a constant follower and true believer of his work in Marvel.

So what did he do? Well he 'killed' the Human Torch - but of course, jaded Marvel fans like me will say 'This isn't the first time' and "Well, he'll be back - its just a matter of when.', meanwhile the title will go on - right? Wrong again... from Fantastic Four, Johnathan then introduces the Future Foundation, introduces new uniforms, a new mission for the team and expands the line-up by adding Spider-man. Whoa...!

Here's a link to see an article about this event: Future Foundation c/o CBR
and here's a Wikipedia page about the team too...
Wikipedia on Future Foundation
These two articles will surely give anyone an idea of what I'm talking about.

So how do I like this new direction? To say the least - I was once again surprised. I definitely checked issue one out - heck, I'm sure a lot of armchair fans did (as they did with the death issue), and I had to make suer I had a copy of the issue. Next: Hickman and Guice? Wow! I mean, I was sort of sad to realize that Guice was leaving Captain America (another favorite of mine) to move to FF - and I can honestly say I don't begrudge his choice. This was a one-two punch of great writing and great art - complementary to each other. This was a very different change in the concept of the FF - a change in the team's mission statement - and definitely worthy of a change of look and feel. But apparently, it doesn't stop there, either.

Here we see Val taking center stage as she (sort of) lets Reed in on a problem that needs fixing - and apparently, he;s one of the last ones to know about it. She also takes in the help of Reed's nemesis - Victor Von Doom into her plans. Whew... I can definitely see Sue's courage in this little one. But wait, there's more... as Sue, Ben and Peter help recruit a who's who of FF villains, all with the goal to stop Reed Richards - confused? You won't be if you read FF.

But Val aside, its how we saw the FF react (and continue reacting) to their perceived loss of Johnny - and how this brings in Peter. Great stuff this first issue - even if some people complained that nothing much happens as it feels like a setting up issue... well, isn't the first issue supposed to be a set up? I saw not problem with this, so I definitely enjoyed it. I'm sorely tempted to review each issue here, but I know I may not have enough time for that - hence my running review of the title instead.

If I had any complaint about FF (the Future Foundation), any such complaint at all, I'd say it was the latest two issues back, wherein we are witness to how Black Bolt got back from the void of space - in time to be part fo the War of Four Cities (yes... its finally about to proceed). Now those two issues were like extended setting up issue - one that distracted from the momentum leading ot this War of Four Cities that I've been plugging since the start of this write-up.

I've just gotten the latest issue - and will read it in a while, but for those who've yet to experience the FF (be it the Fantastic Four - or Future Foundation) you could always get back issues... or you can get the trade paperback compilations to enjoy Hickman's romp with the FF.

I'm definitely seeing a Fantastic Future for this title.

Note: Images from CBR, Marvel. Fantasctic Four and Future Foundation are properties of Marvel Comics.

Carte Blanche by Jeffrey Deaver - a book review

2011-08-27T17:52:00.000-07:00

The title isn't that impressive - at least, when compared to the franchise's history of books and movies - after all, you can't get larger in the spy thriller milieu than 007. Luckily, the book's cover places that well recognized '007' branding quite boldly on the pages; in fact those numbers leap out - plus adding in relatively smaller - but still noticeable letters the announcement that this book happens to be the new James Bond novel for good measure just to get the reader's attention... otherwise, I'd have passed it by. Yeah... yeah... judging a book by its cover may be an old warning - but it's a Bond book... surely its got to be nice, right?

How about the story itself? For starters, its a book by Jeffrey Deaver - a man known for his intelligent man's thrillers (anyone remember Bone Collector?), but it doesn't stop there... Deaver gives a more human, more realistic Bond - one who is good at what he does, but then so is his support organization, and its here where I like Deaver's work. Another thing I liked... he modernizes Bond - so this is not the Bond of the Iron Curtain era... (as was the approach of the previous Bond novel I read), rather this is a Bond of the 21st century. This transforms Bond into someone more like his current silver screen counterpart in terms of the gadgets he can have access to - but the book gives us all a glimpse of Bond likewise at work with, and at times... suffering the fools behind bureaucratic red tape, or one he conveniently bypasses as he needs to respect the different turfs of local agencies when he's on British soil. That easily changes, of course, when he's outside the U.K. where his 'carte blanche' status is in effect.

Let's not forget that Bond's stories likewise deal with villains worthy of the Bond stature as well, and Mr. Deaver introduces us to Theron Hydt of Green Way - a company whose business is recycling waste (as I said, modernized), plus Nial Dunne, who would be Bond's physical antagonist; and how about another tradition with the Bond franchise, namely femme fetales with catchy names... even here Jeffrey doesn't veer from tradition with Felicity Willing - a willing partner, if you;re teh right man for her plans - she's also a philanthropist sending food to areas where people are starving.

I won't go into too many details as I might spoil anyone's reading pleasure - suffice it to say that that this is a good, credible, Bond adventure - with believable gadgets and believable characters, and even long time Bond fans will enjoy the cameos of long time Bond allies Agents Mathias and Leiter (did I spell Felix's last name right?), proving in this book that Bond is ever as intelligent and resourceful as he needs to be. Naturally, Jeffrey isn't Jeffrey if he did not place the clues on the table - and the reader is left either following Bond's line of thoughts... or wondering 'when did that happen?'

For more clues as to how this novel reads out, see this link for an excerpt, courtesy of amazon.com:
Carte Blanche

If you like Bond - grab a copy now.

Superman Secret Origin - a review

2011-07-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

First of... Superman. Who does not know the Man of Steel? I mean, aside from children who are still too young to enjoy super heroes and would rather watch videos of Muppets with alphabets (which I still enjoy watching) or singing purple dinosaurs (which I did not really like as much for my kids). Who wouldn't recognize the stylized 'S' symbol? I mean, as symbols go and as characters are, Superman has got to be one of the most known characters in print, TV, or movie.

Secondly... and this time, in the more focused world of Comic books - who has not heard of the name Geoff Johns? The man who gave such sterling runs to the titles he's handled... namely, JSA, Teen Titans, The Flash and Green Lantern. Granted there was that very brief stint at Marvel's Avengers which did not seem to impact too much - but I would argue that he did not stay in the title long enough to really stretch his imagination - and despite that, how he deceptively played with a lot of people taunting us with the clue of Dell Rusk? This man has spunk and style, I'll tell you that.

So we've one well known writer and an iconic character. Add to the mix a really great artistic team by way of Gary Frank and Jon Sibal and you get a formula for one really great limited series (or in my case, a deluxe hard covered graphic novel compiling said mini). Yup... Superman Secret Origins was definitely a great read - its almost a sin to consider why I did not pick this up until now.

I'm sure it was tauted... advertised and raved. SO how come I missed it? Back then I guess, I did not want to try it out... I mean, c'mon... it's about Superman - how novel can that get? Well apparently, novel enough because of Geoff's very humanistic manner of depicting Clark Kent. Yes, this is the secret origin of how Clark grew... how he faced his loneliness in being afraid to hurt friends like Pete, how he awkwardly had to put Lana at arms length - and yes... how alone and miserable he felt when he faced the truth of his being very different.

From there we see his happiness at discovering the Legion of Superheroes, and knowing he had friends very much like him. Oh yeah, Smallville fans - in case you're wondering, if was Geoff Johns who also wrote the episode that introduced the Legion into the TV series. So rest assured, if you liked how they were depicted - and how true to form they were portrayed... well that was Geoff's doing. Rest assured, his depiction of them here as well was sterling.

It doesn't stop there either... Lex, Perry, Jimmy, Lois and a whole lot more - even the villains like Metallo and the Parasite - all these people... did I say people? I meant characters... all of them felt naturally real. And their expressions... wow... Gary really compemented Geoff's plots. I mean, as I said earlier - I did not bother getting this because it was a Superman story, and I felt there was no need for yet another Superman origin again. I would have been happy to leave it with John Byrne's renditioning all those years ago - and yet, compared to this current work, that was comics... this, well... it's a Graphic Novel, what;s the difference? Simple... with due respect to Mr. Byrne, this was amazing work and it shows exactly how much care and respect was placed in this mini series. I only wish - just like in Byrne's mini, this one had a Batman cameo as well.

But if I had to compliment this work, I can only think that had Geoff decided to write this into a regular title... month in and month out, I'd opt to support it. Never mind that it seems like a retake on a character's origin... never mind that I've seen a lot of Superman movies, read a lot of issues that I feel I know the character like the back of my hand... Geoff's rendition really humanizes Clark - we have Clark first and the super man second. It was a nice direction... and despite the jumping on and off points in Clark's life, as the limited series space demanded happen, I find myself wishing this was extended to 12 issue... heck, maybe even more.

The Man of Steel, Man of Tomorrow, iconic hero responsible for Truth, Justice and the American way (though I'd argue that the virtues are global (or they should be) - I would have wanted to see more of how Clark the youth grew up with the wisdom of the Kents - a strength well played in the TV series with Tom Welling. I would have wanted to see more milestones shaping Clark into who he is... what hsi inner compass would be like.

This is how Superman Secret Origins affected me. I highly recommend getting a copy (be it buy or borrow) and read the story. You may be - like me, wondering what will be so special about a retelling - or why it even has to be done... but believe me, I enjoyed it, and you might too. Geoff is one of those writers known for brining heroes back to their roots... and it's nice to see Clark and his roots. This is why he is Superman - its not about the powers - okay, so it is... but its not what makes him unique. Clark has a strong moral compass, and Geoff captures it well.

Thank you Geoff... than you too, Frank, Jon... I'm sure I might have enjoyed this had it been a book, but I'm sure I might have missed a few nuances that your humanistic artistic style emphasized. This definitely goes into my list of great reads. No ratings here... I don't think its fair to the work.

Superman is naturally owned by DC and the image shown above was copied from Amazon.com. By the way, it is the exact (deluxe hardcover edition) version I bought.

X-men First Class - a really really good movie

2011-06-09T08:09:00.000-07:00

First off, let me point you to the Wikipedia site to learn more about the film's technical aspects.

X-Men First Class Wikipedia

That done, let me just say that in a year where blockbuster Super Heroes movies were all lined up to show during summertime, possibly demanding everyone's attention, I did not expect X-men First Class to be as good as it was. Really... I thought the movie franchise died with the forgettable X-3 movie, and the likewise lamentable (though slightly better than X-3) Wolverine.

What's worse, to set up a prequel story... well, how bad could it get? right? - though I would have to honestly say that this wasn't a 'fall from your chair when you hear the pitch' idea - it just did not grab me with excitement... after all, pre-'All New, All Different X-men' (at least, in the comics) was not exactly an exciting moment for Marvel redership (though I liked it, as I related to tehm being teens back then), but with possible exception to some Neal Adams work, that is, the period was 'so-so'.

So I thought, okay... at least this movie is going to be something to tide me over while I wait between Thor and Captain America - both being preludes to next year's much awaited Avengers by Josh Whedon none the less.

Oh yeah... and if you also like DC, there's Green Lantern just around the corner too.

So see what I mean about this year having a glut in super heroes movies? Not that I'm complaining, mind you - but X-men First class would have to be really great to be remembered in this crowd of higher profile movie projects.

Well guess what... though I've yet to see the Cap and GL flick, I can honestly say that X-men: First Class was a first class (pun intended) story! Sure it changed a few histories - but the way it was done was not demeaning, nor insulting to the history - and it sure was a great jolt of electricity as far as reviving interest to the franchise is concerned.

Giving the movie that 60's vibe and all, was short of genius. Then again, it did need to show Xavier and Magneto in their prime - as opposed to old characters in the first movies - which by the way is basically true in comics, so it wasn't their fault that Charles and Magnus were most probably in their 60s (at least). Bringing back the clock ot the 60s allowed the movie to show us how the two met, how their mutual friendship started and of course, how the falling out happened as well.

The characterization - specially of Magneto, was spot on - and priceless, and I would have to say that it carried the film. Even the character of Charles (the more boring of the two main protagonists) was great - showing shining moments of his being a mentor.

I liked seeing Alex Summers - though I wonder how many non-comic readers knew for a fact that he's supposed to be Cyclops younger brother - though now in the movie it seems things are reversed, (then again, aside from mentioning the name, any sibling connection was never played out).

I also liked the Banshee'a rendition (though I sort of missed the Irish accent - but I definitely liked the humor portrayed - specially with how he learned to fly - with a little push from Magneto. Charles baleful look to Eric (Magnus' real name, by the way - in fact, maybe few people refer to him as Magnus these days) after the push, and Eric pointing out that he was sure the thought had likewise crossed Charles' mind.

Mystique, apparently was one of the first mutants that Charles met, and he sort of adopted her afterwards - how she later became the seemingly cold and deadly member of the brotherhood will have to be placed under the label 'still to be explained', but her being a not so self assured mutant at the start - to the more stepping out of the shadow version at the end of the movie was also built upon, and not just given to the audience as a 'this is who she is... deal with it' type of character.

Darwin was great to see - too bad he never reached his true potential (or at least, as far as in the comics). I didn't like the Angel (a female who is basically Pixie in the comics, and not Warren Worthington - guess they had to stay consistent with the plucked wings in the previous movies). Beast was okay too - and they even brought in his transformation from almost human to blue and furry all over.

But the one thing I really liked was how they placed the X-men's 'coming out from being secretive, to exposing their existence' in the Cuban Missile Crisis. I mean, c'mon... what else Earth-tensing story was there. huh? Seeing how these X-men worked together, watching the human's expressions as they were witness to what they could do... these were priceless. I mean, I know about the X-men... have been a fan all along - but even I was at awe seeing Eric raise the submarine.

To say the least, the humans were definitely spooked. Oh yeah, another suspenseful ending ensued as Charles and Magneto struggled... with Charles trying to stop Eric from sending the missiles aimed at them, back to the naval fleet that fired the missiles at them - yuet despite that, how Magneto reacted to Charles getting injured - really classic character moments... thank you Director Matthew Vaughn! and Thank you too to Michael Fassbender (Magneto)!

I'm sure that when people watch this... then take a look at X-men 1 again, specifically when Charles meets Eric at the lobby and they call each other 'old friend' they - the viewers will have a better understanding of the history between these two. See? Even if it were not it's intent, this movie likewise cemented a few abstract ideas for it's predecessor.

Even the portrayal of the main villain, Sebastian Shaw (likewise retconned in the movie) was, well... acceptable. The White Queen was a bit better, although rather one-dimensional and somehow lacked the allure. Still, it was nice to see how Charles battled her in the field... though I hope to someday see a 'psychic' battle worthy of Xavier and Fahrouk next time - yes, you heard me, I wouldn't mind a next time (i.e. sequel) with this movie... and secretly hope that they get it better by erasing X-3. Wonder if they'll call the sequel 'Second Class'? Nah... it might jinx the franchise.

Yeah, First Class was a really really good movie - it was intelligently put together, and it hardly had any known actors - okay, there were a few - but most of them played either support or just cameos. Too bad the movie did not have any easter egg in the after credits portion - nor did Stan Lee make a cameo, hmmm...

So, yes... I am looking forward to watching GL and Cap, but I have to wonder if X-men First Class will now make them suffer. After all, the movie showed us that intelligently plotted Super Heroes movies are possible... and changes to history can be done... if handled with respect.

X-men: First Class was a great movie - and definitely not just a filler-in between the main stars. Heck, now I want to see if these main stars can hold a candle to the upstart movie of Summer 2011.

If you haven't seen it yet - well, sorry for some spoilers, but I highly recommend it. I'll definitely get a disk when it comes out, so I can view the movie again... and again... and again. And heck, yeah... maybe I'll look at X1 and X2 again.

Thor in 3D!

2011-03-31T09:54:00.000-07:00

As the poster points out, Thor will apparently be coming out in IMAX 3D! I will definitely try to see this in such a format, after all... if Asgard is larger than life - then it stands to reason that we should all see it in such a manner (larger than your regular screen size).

I also like the blurb on the upper portion. 'Courage is Immortal' seems very appropriate. So yeah... with Thor and Captain America, this promises to be a fantastic year for Avengers fans.

Vampirella - as it should be done

2011-02-23T02:35:00.000-08:00

I was about to write regarding Vampi... why I liked her, and why I continue liking her. How she turned into a cultural icon (at least for me) and how I seek reprinted materials of her Warren days.

But as I believe one should not reinvent the wheel, I also consider the possibility that others have done something similar. In this case, explained why Vampi is so popular... and why it can be one exceptional artist's fault.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I redirect you to a fellow blogger's entry from 'The Groovy Age of Horror'...
Vampirella by Gonzales - look and feel. This blog post explains everything wonderfully, I need not add more... except maybe the fact that I still search for those ellusive reprints.

By the way - there is a part two to that: Vampirella by Gonzales - in action, which shows that Vampi was a favorite of the writer as well.

Before I end this entry, let me also say that although Gonzales did give Vampi her definitive look, her adventures were penned by Archie Goodwin (of Secret Agent Corrigan and Star Wars comic strip fame). Of course, back then, I was too young to know all these details, but not too young to feel attracted to Gonzales' renderings of my favorite Vampiress.

If this piqued your curiosity, and you wish to seek more Vampi lore, head on over to this site: Vampilore

Innovation Secrets of Steve Jobs - a Book Review

2011-02-18T19:19:00.000-08:00

‘Innovation Secrets of Steve Jobs: Insanely Different Principles for Breakthrough Success’
Carmine Gallo - Author
Mc Graw Hill – Publisher

Truth be told, I bought this book first - much earlier than its predecessor and companion book, and as I sat down to read this; Gallo makes reference to his other book. Now, he did not say anything about the other book being a prerequisite or anything – and to be fair, it wasn’t.

But two things made me decide to pause reading this book and finding the other right away. The first was I liked to know more about Steve’s presentation style; and two? Gallo wrote in a comfortable manner that I did not find any second thoughts wanting to read another book by him. So the fact that I’m blogging this review means I read the other book – then read this one as well… and yes, the other book’s review should be visible near this one as well.

Gallo begins by quoting Thomas Freidman of the New York Times ‘What the World Needs now is More Jobs – Steve Jobs’ , and I must say that the quote sets the tone nicely for the rest of the book.

So what did I learn? For starters, more about Steve’s life – and here I thought Gallo covered all his notes on Steve in the previous book. But more importantly, I did learn seven principles…. Some of which are really obvious – but surprisingly downplayed or trivially ignored by some people, present company included.

The Principles start with ‘Do What You Love’ – see what I mean with trivially ignored? The second is ‘Put a Dent in the Universe’ – Wow!!! This was a great insight, and honestly speaking, a bit daunting… but that’s it too… to find the courage to pursue and persevere in this principle. Third ‘Kick Start Your Brain’ came across as needing to think out of the box – again, something many pay lip service to… yet rarely do. Fourth is ‘Sell Dreams, not Products’ which is all about knowing your customers better than themselves. Fifth; ‘Say No to 1,000 Things’ which is all about focus… keeping it simple and sticking to the principle – not making things overly complicated. After all, complicated = confusing. Sixth? ‘Create Insanely Great Experiences’ - something Steve seems to be a master at. I mean, using the iPod came across as insanely easy… more so the iPad. Imagine the fact that a 2-year old could use the iPad? Amazing… Seventh, and last… ‘Master the Message’… keep it simple – in fact, keep it focused… Twitter-length focused.
These seven principles are really worth revisiting or reconsidering, and I have really enjoyed how Gallo gave us these cusps of wisdom. Before you think this book was all about Steve, Gallo gives us additional stories of other people who parallel Steve’s practice and beliefs in each principle… I suspect, just to show is mere mortals that we can do it too.

As I was reading this book, the world also received the announcement that Steve Jobs was taking a much needed leave – a medically related one at that. Here’s hoping Steve gets through this latest challenge to his health… after all I would like him to stay around longer – at least, for Gallo to write another book about him.

But seriously, get well Steve. Let us learn more from you.

To everyone else… get this book and place it beside Steven Covey’s 7 Habits books. It can stand shoulder to shoulder with such a tome, and I feel that they complement each other – even if they weren’t thought to be so.

Book Review - Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs

2011-02-09T02:25:00.000-08:00

‘Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs: How to be Insanely Great in front of any Audience’
Carmine Gallo - Author
Mc Graw Hill - Publisher

I’ll go out on a limb here and assume that to most readers of this review ,Steve Jobs needs no introduction; at least… to the typical internet user – which likewise typically means you’re a good enough computer (PC desktop, Mac, laptop, iPad) user to be able to navigate your way into the world wide web and find this article. Why you were searching for it… or the circumstances regarding how you stumbled upon this review, I can only guess at. But the point is you found it – good for you.

To the subject matter at hand – Steve is know to be the co-founder of Apple… the computer, and not the record label, and is responsible for introducing such ideas and products as the Macintosh – with its Visual-style user interface (yes, Windows copied it, though to be fair, Jobs and company likewise got it from elsewhere - namely Xerox), the NeXT computers, Pixar; and upon his return to Apple - colorful Macs, and let’s not forget all those products that start with the letter ‘i’ like the iPod, iPad and iTunes.

This book is not about all these. Instead, it’s all about his communication style – specifically, his presentation style. Book aside, have you seen Steve present any Apple product? If not, I suggest you look at at least one such presentation. In fact, look at several, and you’ll see how effortless and ‘inspiring’ his presentations can be.

Enter Gallo – a self-proclaimed Steve Jobs evangelist (I mean, with two books about Steve, isn’t it a bit obvious?) with his book Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs and you get a book that really scrutinizes Steve’s presentation style… not just on stage – but off it as well. And Gallo presents us with a 3-part framework, not exactly new… but never the less, quite effective – specially with Steve doing it.

The chapters are arranged to follow Steve’s 3-part framework, and are interesting (as well as easy to follow) reads about how Steve introduces (or creates) an idea, how he delivers an experience, and how he refines and rehearses – taking serious stock of stage presence (eye-contact, relaxed manner and near instantaneous style. Here’s a hint: there really is noting instantaneous about it all – everything is well planned, practiced and tweaked (including his seemingly impromptu jokes and comments) to deliver those memorable talks that Steve has been known to do – ones that many people (fondly) refer to as ‘reality-warping’.

Gallo dissects Steve’s style with the help of YouTube available videos, and shares it (both the analysis and the video addresses) in his book – allowing us to watch and or review, first hand, what exactly happened and when… and more importantly, how Steve executed it all.

Does Steve never make a mistake? Actually, he does - on several occasions. With all the practice he puts in on talk – is it small wonder that these defects are few and far between? And when those rare gems happen, how does he handle them? One can imagine a whole bunch of technicians scrambling in near panic, while Steve is up front – on stage with a ‘technical glitch’. Steve’s secret at this point? Stay composed, and find the humor in the situation. He knows people are working hard to fix it… and meanwhile, he’s there to entertain – to connect to his audience.

Now, does Carmine’s scrutiny of Steve hold water? Apparently it does – you see… all these presentations – and the book release, happened before Steve introduced the iPad, and right before the launching of the iPad, Carmine was asked about what would Steve show… though Carmine could not answer that particular question, he did say what Steve would do. And guess what? Carmine nailed it.

So… the bottom line, will people who read this book be able to present like Steve? Maybe.

Like I said, nothing’s really new. But if you have the same passion for ‘getting things done right’ as Steve does – and knowing what you do with this book, you can apply these ideas to your next presentation… and your presentations will be much better for following the ideas set within this book’s pages. I mean, let’s be realistic… one does not become insanely great overnight, right?

I’ve been doing presentations for decades – and yet, as I went through this book, I found myself reading, perusing, absorbing ideas from it’s chapters, as it presented Steve’s style… as only Carmine could share it.

So my personal recommendation is to go get the book – and bring your presentations into a different – and better level.

Would you rather be a zombie or a mummy?

2011-01-13T02:10:00.001-08:00

Zombie... I still have a chance at some fashion sense - unlike just wearing tissue paper all around me. :-)

Ask me anything

What's your favorite season of the year?

2011-01-13T02:08:00.001-08:00

In my country, that's either rainy or hot. But in the middle of these extremes - say December to January, we get cool weather... that is my favorite. can I call it the Christmas season?

Ask me anything

The readability factor

2011-01-13T01:48:00.000-08:00

I'm at that age where most people need glasses to get to read certain things; things like fine prints in medicine labels... the one's they really make hard to read - or your everyday paperback novel. Naturally, I do need my glasses to get to read certain stuff, and it really is a frustrating thing when I want to read certain things - only to realize I left my glasses somewhere.

Case in point, I wanted to catch up on my reading a certain book I had brought with me - alas, I apparently left my glasses at home... in my rush to get to where I had to go, it was on the top shelf of our computer table, but with so many things to being along, I simply forgot to take it. Guess vision isn't the only thing that gets rusty as we age, huh?

Lucky for me, the boo I had had somewhat visible texts even without my glasses (it was a hardbound book which has relatively larger texts than your paperbacks) and could read the writing, so long as I held it at arms length from my face. Still, had this been a comic book - I would be sunk... and would have to wait when I got home to don my glasses and read.

Ah well... such is life. Lucky for me, text size can be adjusted in blog sites - I need no glasses as I type this out.

If you could wake up as anyone tomorrow, who would it be?

2011-01-10T05:27:00.001-08:00

assuming it can't be me... the Chinese Prime Minister - then I'd work for world peace - maybe spank North Korea for acting like a spoiled brat.

Ask me anything

What one thing are you exceptionally good at?

2011-01-10T05:21:00.001-08:00

I'll mention three; not one - Facilitating, Coaching and Leading

Ask me anything

What was the last book you read?

2011-01-10T05:20:00.001-08:00

Do Graphic Novels count? If so - Fables (deluxe edition) 1 & 2 by Bill Willingham

Ask me anything

I know... Fables has been around for quite some time now, and it's not entirely new. But I have not read them before - and I'm now making up for some lost time by enjoying these deluxe versions.

If you like your fairy tale characters living a different life- like say, as you somehow encountered them in Shrek, then this title will be enjoyable reading for you.

Would you rather own a luxury yacht or a private jet?

2011-01-10T05:17:00.001-08:00

Jet... I prefer the reach it affords - it can get me to a lot of places a yacht can't.

Ask me anything

What do you think about formspring.me so far?

2011-01-10T05:15:00.001-08:00

it has it's use... definitely helps relive blogging mental blocks

Ask me anything

Who's the most beautiful person you know?

2011-01-10T05:14:00.001-08:00

If we're talking classic beauty - it's hands down Grace Kelly... my jaw dropped when I first watched her in Casablanca.

Ask me anything

What was the best advice you've ever received?

2011-01-10T05:12:00.001-08:00

Treat people like people (with respect - regardless of social standing or organizational position)

Ask me anything

If you could only watch one TV show what would it be?

2011-01-10T05:11:00.001-08:00

Discovery channel - it's got the most interesting shows

Ask me anything

Next would be Nat. Geo., then Animal Planet. As you can see, I go for the Science and Nature shows - they enrich my knowledge... and even make me understand different cultures better.

The last thing I would choose are channels with lots of reality shows or drama shows - can't stand the inane plots (assuming they have one) and the useless overdrawn drama. I want to think and be entertained. I want my shows to enrich my knowledge... not emphasize warped values.

If you could go on vacation for the next month with an unlimited budget, where would you go?

2011-01-10T05:10:00.001-08:00

Bahamas... enjoy the sun - and fun

Ask me anything

When was the last time you received flowers?

2011-01-10T05:09:00.001-08:00

Me receive flowers? I don't even give them...

Ask me anything

If you could be invited to one person's birthday party, whose would it be?

2011-01-10T05:08:00.001-08:00

Hugh Hefner's at the Playboy Mansion of course. Need I explain why?

Ask me anything

What's one thing you own that you should probably throw away, but never will?

2011-01-10T05:01:00.001-08:00

I used to think my old training materials - even those decades old and possibly with outdated ideas... but the big flood took care of that.

Ask me anything

What was the most interesting place you've traveled to?

2011-01-10T04:59:00.001-08:00

Disneyland - even at the age of 47, it still tugged at - and charmed my inner child.

Ask me anything

What do you think was the greatest invention in your lifetime?

2011-01-10T04:57:00.001-08:00

I'd have to say the microwave - it really made heating and cooking that much easier.

Ask me anything

Would you rather swim in a pool or the ocean?

2011-01-10T04:56:00.001-08:00

Pool - not that I'm sacred of the ocean - but I'd rather swim in fresh and not salt water. Besides, pools are relatively cleaner.

Ask me anything

Who would win in a fight: pirates or ninjas?

2011-01-03T06:43:00.003-08:00

are you kidding me? Pirates would do well to fear ninjas. They're swift, silent and sober.

Ask me anything

How would you describe yourself in 3 words?

2011-01-03T06:43:00.001-08:00

'world's greatest dad' - it's the most important job for me right now.

Ask me anything

Who's the most talented person you know?

2011-01-03T06:41:00.001-08:00

Guess I'd have to say Tommy Lim - I know some talented people, but Tommy crosses the boundaries of art, music and science.

Ask me anything

Star Trek or Star Wars?

2011-01-03T06:39:00.001-08:00

Trek - it's got a well drawn out scientific and philosophical background. Star Wars is just sheer adventure & entertainment... Trek makes me think.

Ask me anything

What's your favorite genre of music?

2011-01-03T06:37:00.001-08:00

I actually can appreciate and enjoy a great number of different genre. But I lean towards romantic songs - be they pop, rock, blues, etc...

Ask me anything

If you could have been the author of any book, what would it have been?

2011-01-03T06:35:00.001-08:00

Lord of the Rings... Tolkien was such a genius!

Ask me anything

Would you rather work at a large company or a small one?

2011-01-03T06:32:00.001-08:00

Either, or is fine... it's not as if one'll be free of problems or politics, right?

Ask me anything

What's your dream car?

2011-01-03T06:31:00.001-08:00

a Black Lamborghini - but given the Philippine roads and public drivers, a Black Humvee might be better.

Ask me anything

If you could attend any concert, what would it be?

2011-01-03T01:11:00.001-08:00

U2, Sting or Josh Groban - in that order

Ask me anything

If you could date any celebrity, who would it be?

2011-01-03T01:10:00.001-08:00

I hear that Scarlett Johansen is available again... too bad I'm not.

Ask me anything

I could also consider dating Candice Swanepoel. :-)

What would be the best workplace perk?

2011-01-03T01:07:00.001-08:00

people's trust in your abilities... and the knowledge that your boss has your back

Ask me anything

What video game have you played the most?

2011-01-03T01:06:00.003-08:00

X-wing, Prince of Persia, Starcraft - I guess that's my top 3 (not in any order)

Ask me anything

Who inspires you the most?

2011-01-03T01:06:00.001-08:00

Jobs, Gore, Bono, Nelson Mandela... it's quite a long list - but no one singularly fits the bill.

Ask me anything

What's your biggest phobia?

2011-01-03T01:04:00.001-08:00

Fear of having lived a a life without any meaningful contribution - don't know what that's called.

Ask me anything

If you could ask George W. Bush one question what would it be?

2011-01-03T01:02:00.001-08:00

How about helping the world become a better place outside the White House?

Ask me anything

Would you rather have the ability to fly, or the ability to breathe underwater?

2011-01-03T00:59:00.001-08:00

Fly... less pollution way up there.

Ask me anything

On a side note how many people prefer to be Superman over Aquaman? It may not be entirely fair, but it's a general truism that most would choose Supes.

If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be?

2011-01-03T00:58:00.003-08:00

Greed

Ask me anything

What TV show makes you laugh the loudest?

2011-01-03T00:58:00.001-08:00

That's easy... Big Bang Theory

Ask me anything

Who's the most underrated musician?

2011-01-03T00:57:00.001-08:00

With possible exception to Charise and Arnel Piineda? Most Filipino artists are underrated.

Ask me anything

I mean, let's face it... if not for Yotube, these two would not have been discovered and would suffer the anonymity that many Filipino artists (who were a lot better than many of their foreign counterparts) suffered. So yeah... the Internet is a great equalizer in having talents discovered. I'm sure other countries have similar stories as well.

What's the best place near you to get a drink?

2011-01-03T00:55:00.001-08:00

Any place that is relatively quiet - with relaxing piped-in music, serves chilled beer and great finger food. Unfortunately, I still have not found it yet.

Ask me anything

I also like the idea of Cheers - a place where everyone knows each other, which means there's a regular hang out crowd where people meet and talk. I used to have such a place to go to. where the bar tender knows your usual and where I would wait to meet drinking buddies. Barbara's in the 5th floor of the Trafalgar Plaza... long time ago.

I've not had the luck of finding a new place like that yet.

What do you think is the best way to defeat terrorism?

2011-01-03T00:54:00.001-08:00

seek root cause - negotiate on solving that... and do it fairly. but insist that they likewise play fair; with no hidden agenda... impress upon them that this will be their last chance. not a threat... just fact.

Ask me anything

Do you have any scars on your body? If so, how'd you get them?

2011-01-03T00:49:00.001-08:00

right elbow - bicycle stunt gone wrong, then when it was getting better, got it hit on a table corner while trying to swat a roach... what's worse, roach got away.

Ask me anything

If you could have invented one thing, what would it have been?

2011-01-03T00:37:00.001-08:00

the Mac... look where it got Steve

Ask me anything

What's the best place near you to get some ice cream?

2011-01-02T23:31:00.003-08:00

wait outside... an ice cream vendor will come soon enough

Ask me anything

If you could ask God one question what would it be?

2011-01-02T23:31:00.001-08:00

more a request than a question - Can he please tell Abraham to come down and straighten out these warring religious factions?

Ask me anything

If you had to cook dinner for someone tonight, what would you make?

2011-01-02T23:27:00.001-08:00

depends on who and why... I can go from eggs, beans and bacon to an elaborate pasta dish

Ask me anything

What's your favorite movie quote?

2011-01-02T23:26:00.001-08:00

'I've got a bad feeling about this'

Ask me anything

Do you believe there's intelligent life on other planets?

2011-01-02T23:24:00.001-08:00

Of course... and they're intelligent enough to stay away from us until we mature as a race

Ask me anything

What do you think about formspring.me so far?

2011-01-02T23:23:00.003-08:00

still on the fence - let you know in a few days

Ask me anything

I will say this though... I've already surpassed, statistics-wise, my previous number of posts these past years. So it's got to count for something. I just wish there were ways to unselect some questions.

I've also discovered that I can add to the answers (like I'm dong now) if I feel that some answers need further explaining... so yeah... I'm starting to like it.

What celebrity would play you in a movie about your life?

2011-01-02T23:23:00.001-08:00

I look Asian - so it'll have to be Chow Yun Fat :-)

Ask me anything

How was 2010 to me? Part 2

2011-01-02T19:00:00.000-08:00

In part one, I vaguely covered how 2010 was for me from January to June - I say vaguely because it was more generalized manner; as opposed to a blow-by-blow account of what happened to me. For a more daily-oriented approach, there's always my other blog - minutuaemusings, where I have an ongoing project 365 photoblog. Now for part two...

Having said that, July was where I had ot come up with a Palanca letter to Bryce for his retreat. A Palanca letter, apparently, was named after a letter that a father gve his child - said letter saying how he felt, and offered the child some sage advice. Well I'm no stranger to such writings - in fact, maybe like the author of the first Palanca letter, I found it more a struggle to see what I need say - how to say it and what to leave out as non-essentials. But write the letter I did. Hope Bryce appreciated it.

August was a failed attempt to go to Cuenca - even with three birthdays to celebrate - the weather was non-cooperative, plus we (that is, Barbie and I) were rather busy with work. Hence we just had to postpone said trip.

September's highlight - at least, at the back of my mind right now, was the Birthday party of Meiji - Bryce's ex. Of course, back then, they weren't exes yet. and we were all invited to her birthday. Back then I thought I say a few signs of their impending breakup - like Bryce not too keen on going... though he was keen on getting her the sunflower a few weeks ago. I learned of the break up later... must have been awkward to have us there, if they weren't really into each other by then. I later asked - but Bryce did not bother giving details. Oh well...

October brought me to Cebu after... oh man... decades I think. I had to go there because Gina had a sudden schedule conflict, and spent almost a week there with Fiel to teach a PM class. The experience was nice... got to see Ayala Mall's new look - but hardly had time to really drink. After work, we were both tired and preferred to stay in our separate rooms - me, to read a book and sleep (I finished two novels while I was there).

November was another failed attempt to go to Cuenca as scheduled - but things started getting hectic with our schedules.,, and there seemed to be no training slowdown in sight - then again, I wanted them to bring it on... after all, if the past was any indicator, I'd say that we'd have a slowdown of operations come mid-December, so I needed to make sure I had a lot of reserves to last until Christmas. Unfortunately, we also had a lot of holidays that ate up about a third of my average cash inflow, and Fred... making good on previous discussions, offered ot sell his Toshiba laptop to me. Since my older Dell was not working, I needed a new laptop ASAP... even if it meant some belt tightening. Lucky for me, my December predictions proved false.

Unlike in the past years, our trainings for 2010 only ended in the day before the night before Christmas... meaning up to the 23rd. Even better, we got our pay for the month last 21st - offering us cash in time for Christmas. And in case that did not happen, I also considered using my credit card... one that I have not used for the entire year - paying off my balances slowly. Well it looks like all those payments paID off since I got to use the card - with a substantial allowable purchasing balance again... both for groceries - and a few books... and graphic novels.

Yeah... if 2010 made me rethink about anything, it was to reconsider trades as a viable collection - even if they aren't the original print. Over-all, this allowed me
to continue collecting comics - something I stopped some time in 2009 due to economic reasons. 2010, on the other hand, allowed me to buy and read them once again. But I did not stop with just comics. I also experienced a resurgence with buying books for leadership, project management, professional development, etc...

Now I still have books to read, and I hope 2011 continues with it's capabilities to allow me to buy even more - both comics (or trades) and of books.

SO that... in a nutshell was how 2010 was good to me. Yeah... you heard me... it was good. Hope 2011 continues this.

How was 2010 to me? Part 1

2011-01-02T06:11:00.000-08:00

Apparently, 2010 was way better than it's predecessor (2009), and that was because people were looking to a more resurgent economy... with many pinning their hopes on U.S. President Obama's plans bearing fruit. Locally, we were not really looking forward to our own presidential elections in May, and even if we were pegged as a country of optimist (I believe a global survey mentioned something of the like), we were secretly desperate for something different.

January was a bit of a slow start... but start it did, and I started having trainings on a regular basis... which was good, because it offered me some way to get the bills paid. January was when I was also reunited with a few friends - Dave arrived and met with Boyet, Tony and me... so that was something. When he left, we thought of getting together once in a while - didn't pan out though... life (and our need to earn a living... or in Tony's case, finish his nursing studies) made sure we were too busy to follow up on that.

Guess that is one of 2010's disappointments... not having enough get together with some friends - though to balance this out, Brian, Jingo and to a lesser extent Jj, had semi-regular Bacardi nights with Barbie and me in our place.

One other item worth mentioning... I had to help Bryce find a tux for his J.S. prom. How about that? But with the exorbitant prices for such wardrobe, we opted for the more practical approach and ended up renting one. Come to think of it, looks like he'll need another one soon - this time, though... as a Senior. Maybe we should get him one this time? Or not.

February gave me more of the usual busy time-frame - with trainings happening more often, plus the fact that I was a combination of both a Technical and People Skills facilitator. A role that seemed unique to me then... though now I could say that of my current colleagues, Gina may very well be close to doing the same juggling act.

March saw me getting a DSLR on my birthday... and because of this, I was able to enter the world of photography with much more gusto. I even started a photoblog (which I am still continuing in my minutiae musings blog. I must say that same time last year, my skills in photography have grown leaps and bounds - and I've yet to really focus on improving my skills here. I've also accumulates a bit of a library of books - and even invested in tow bookshelves for all my books (Lord know's I need another bookshelf too). Oh... and I was really saving up for a DSLR myself - but Barbie beat me to the punch. Not complaining, mind you.

It was around this time that I also tried to link Fiel and APC with John and Red Cross - a match made in heaven (at least on paper) , but apparently, it seemingly did not pan out. Oh well... I'm still in touch with both parties, so who knows? I've also joined John's Red Cross as a volunteer... and may help produce web contents for them soon.

Meanwhile, trainings were being offered regularly - and whereas before we were cautious about our having trainings as regularly as we've been getting - things really started looking up in that front... not just in March - but until the day before the night before Christmas. So yeah, 2010 was a good year for training assignments.

As the months went by, I even met a few new colleagues - primarily Rex Isles, a very cordial person... and great drinking companion (aside from Fiel) in the McKinley Hill area. Of course, aside from Rex, there was Lovern, Biboy and Kiko. But even with these guys, we seemed to be barely fulfilling the training needs of Accenture... not to mention the fact that Rex decided to leave and do something else entirely.

June was when I experienced my first photo-shoot - accompanying Jojo Buenaventura on a Rotary Induction, and feeling how it was to be a professional photographer - just snapping away to capture the highlights of the evening. It was tiring, and I did not realize how heavy the camera (with flash set-up) could be when carried two to four hours straight. I definitely had greater respect for those guys after said gig.

What did I miss out with Jojo in 2010? A golf tournament!!! AARRRRGH!!! Oh well...

I'll continue this reflection in part 2 tomorrow.

My Next Assignment...

2011-01-02T06:04:00.000-08:00

My next book from Thomas Nelson will be...

On the average, shipment of these books take a month... maybe two, so all I have to do is sit tight. Hmmm... maybe I should have asked for the e-book version, but I did not see a PDF file copy, hence I just asked for the physical (book) version. Guess it's better that way - I can then lend the book to my mom afterwards.

Why this book in particular? I'm curious to the arguments to be presented. Besides, at the rate it will be arriving - plus my reading said book, it may very well be a good prep for Holy Week.

The Secret Avengers are the Real Avengers! (part deux)

2010-12-15T06:22:00.000-08:00

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Okay, I did say I'd explain why the Secret Avengers are the real Avengers in my last article - and I do hope you read Greg's reviews too... because if you did, by now you'd realize that the title shows a lot of promise for traditional Avengers fans long suffering from poor characterization under Bendis' disassembling, all the way until his dark reign.

Before we continue, what makes an Avengers issue a worthy one? Well for starters, how about a team filled with recognizable Avengers... this would normally mean the likes of Thor (Don Blake), Iron-man (Tony Stark), Captain America (Steve Rogers), Hawkeye (Clint Barton), Scarlet Witch (Wanda Maximoff), the Vision, Black Panther (T'challa), Giant Man/Ant Man/Yellow Jacket (Hank Pym), the Wasp (Janet Van Dyne), Wonder Man (Simon Williams and a whole lot more.

Naturally, this line-up has been revolving - with new faces coming in and out... sometimes even a real shake-up happens... as Cap's Kooky Quartet did to the membership way back when the original members (which included the Hulk (Bruce Banner) for a while, decided to live life aside from being Avengers. I guess this would be one of those traditions that the writers could play with... Bendis included, and I don't fault him for that.

But one other tradition started to happen with Cap's Kooky Quartet... first, it was the start of really creating the Avengers 'Esprit de Corps' - with Steve Rogers teaching the young team of Hawkeye, Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver some lessons in heroics. Sure they fought each other at times... with two hot heads, it was bound to happen. But when it really mattered most... these heroes fought as a team. In fact the concept of team work was one strong indicator of the Avengers... it's what differentiated them from other teams - including the Distinguished Competition's A-team, the JLA.

With Captain America shaping and training the team, mutual respect ensued... after all, Steve Rogers was very much an officer and gentleman - not just for himself, but for the symbol he upheld as Captain America. This likewise rubbed off on the team. So too did Cap's never say die attitude.

Another tradition? The Avengers did not prejudice their membership against ex-villains, of which 3/4 of Cap's team happened to be. So the Avengers were a team for second chances and redemption.

Some other traditions came into light as the team's history started forming... but it is also this same word; 'history' that I would like to focus on. Any fan of the Avengers has a clear idea of how certain characters are supposed to act... after all, they've acted that way... historically. Sure, there have been some stellar character moments... and some forgetful moments... but there were consistencies... at least, Marvel's editor of olde took care of that.

Not so in the recent years - in fact, the last time characterization was even considered to be part of the package was during the Busiek period... and even if he's had a few misses, he was - at least, consistent with most characterization... and he definitely respected history. Hell, he even took pains to repair inconsistencies with some histories as well. Bendis was coming in after a forgettable run... and many had hopes that this popular writer could turn the franchise around. He did... and he didn't.

He did by disassembling the current team - a move more geared for shock value than drama. Then in a marketing scoop, pulled in the most popular characters into the New Avengers. Sure, his team still had Iron Man and Captain America (Thor was M.I.A. having just gone through Ragnarok) - but unfortunately, these guys were complete strangers, and it became apparent from day one that Bendis did not have a clue to how to handle the characters of his New Avengers. Sure... he could write a passable Luke Cage and Jessica Drew - but come on, these characters were tabula rasas... so they were safe bets. But Steve? even Spider-man (Peter Parker) - they were pale shadows of who they were supposed to be.

Five years later, it still seems that Bendis is clueless to writing characters. Little wonder that I have little love for his run on New and Mighty Avengers. Sales figures to these titles somehow say I'm in the minority... but how many of these people were buying Avengers with false hopes of Bendis improving? How many were buying for completist's sake? how many bought for love of the characters (even if they were really not there)?

In comes Ed Brubaker by way of becoming the latest Captain America writer - it was interesting... after all, Ed was known for writing in DC, not Marvel... so how would he fare in writing one of the seemingly most difficult characters to write in Marvel?

Well, let me say that Ed did marvelously capture the essence of Steve Rogers / Captain America... in fact, he brought the title to greater heights... and I was glad to stay with his journey since issue 1. I liked what I read, and gave Ed a chance. Nice to see I wasn't wrong.

This great rendition made the plight of Bendis' titles all the more obvious. And on those rare occasions that Ed would pull in a cameo or two of Steve's colleagues, I saw glimpses of Avengers of old. Ed had a way of researching past stories and giving them a new angle - and his characterization was spotless. Sure, Steve may act slightly different... but it was a believable version. This was great writing... and I'm not even bringing in the coup the Ed did by brining back Steve's long dead partner - Bucky Barnes. Again I was hesitant... after all, Bucky's death was sort of sacred. To bring him back would be to cheapen it. But Ed did come up with a credible manner that I just had to had to shake my head and say 'wow, he got away with it'.

Now Ed jumps into the Secret Avengers... and what does he bring into this new title? More of the same brilliance... great characterization, great story telling (even if the pacing is slow at times), great historical depth...even if some of them are his adjustments, and new, exciting twists.

With Steve Rogers leading a new team of veterans and newbies, with a seemingly flexible roster (in the first arc we had Nova, in this new arc we have Shang Chi and the Orphan of Shadows (a character he introduced in his Iron Fist run) - plus a villain that promises to outdo his long running villain in Captain America... it's no small wonder that with just seven issues out, I already feel that the real Avengers are back.

Note: Images of characters appearing here - via the covers and drawings are copyrighted by Marvel. Mine is just to make the place a bit more interesting than just mu ramblings.

Interesting...

2010-12-10T02:10:00.000-08:00

Just noticed this advertisment in Blogger...

Turn your blog into a book!
Blog2Print from SharedBook turns your blog into a soft cover or hard cover book. You pick the cover, add an optional dedication, then preview and you're done. Prices start at $14.95.

I may just take them up on this some day.

The Secret Avengers are the Real Avengers!

2010-11-22T06:05:00.000-08:00

When Marvel launched it's Heroic Age (chronologically the time when Norman Osborn got toppled down as head of HAMMER; a corrupted version of SHIELD - and ceased to be trusted by the general public) It relaunched a few titles and realigned others to reflect the newer - and I would add, saner Marvel world.

Cornerstone to this change was Steve Rogers (back from time-displacement... hey wait a minute, didn't Batman somehow just do the same feat? - go figure) and his appointment as America's new Top Cop - and rather than revive SHIELD, Rogers... now out of his Captain America garbs and sporting the simple title 'Commander' decides to keep things close to the chest and just make sure his friends and colleagues get off the wanted list of Osborn, so they could do what they do best... act as heroes.

Unfortunately, these past years have given me a shadow of the team I used to like so much - the Avengers were reduced to being fugitives, busily fighting crime in a world where doing such actions would legitimately peg them as the wanted criminals. They were too busy running, hiding and talking as only Brian Michael Bendis could get them to... which is a polite way to say that they were talking like Bendis and less like their own characters. In fact, despite his vaunted gift for writing, Bendis showed a fatal flaw... lack of character understanding, lack of character depth and lack of character portrayals period. Sure he had a few gems... the Luke Cage spotlight in Civil War being an example - but he was struggling in Avengers both New and Mighty.

Well, despite it's vaunted marketing engines moving with all pistons firing, having the prospect of Bendis still writing Avengers was, at least to me, a move worse than ice water being splashed on an otherwise possibly exciting announcement. The thing is... and this is what puzzles me to no end, Bendis sold... and still sells Avengers issues - weird.

Anyway, the next set of news was a breath of fresh air for me... another Avengers title was going to be written by Ed Brubaker (of Captain America fame). Finally, the man I said who should be writing Avengers, was now going to be placed in hte helm of a third issue - but why call the Secret Avengers? This was even followed by an advertising campaign milking the 'secret' factor by releasing announcements with silhouettes of the 'secret' members.

It wasn't until the image of the Secret Avengers was leaked out that we saw the line-up... some with definite Avengers history, while the others were relatively new. There was, of course, Steve Rogers - sporting a new outfit, and gladly being handled by Ed Brubaker (so no need to worry about wrong characterization here). Then we have Rhodey a.k.a. War Machine, formerly of the West Coast Avengers; which settles the need for an Iron Man.

To continue the Avengers feel, the team has Natasha - the Black Widow, and a recent regular in Captain (Bucky Barnes) America too, I might add - plus a long absent member whose name always appeared when fans were asked who they wanted to see as an Avenger again - Hank McCoy, the Beast - fresh out of the X-men titles. Let's also not forget another past West Coast member in this Secret team - the Merc turned hero/champion of a particular Egyptian deity, Moon Knight.

Then we have the fresh faces - Valkyrie (a surprise move), which sort of ensures an Asgardian presence in the team, and another New Warrior who could easily fit in the team; and not to mention Galactic hero - Nova (Rich Rider). Yeah... some of those silhouettes were downright edited to not reflect certain giveaway portions of the heroes shapes... and Ant-Man (no, not Pym).

Issue one straps us on for a ride to Mars (when was the last time the Avengers went to space?) and encounter a new/old problem - the Serpent Crown (last seen in the all Annual major (forgettable) event cross-over Atlantis Attacks. (For a while there, I did forget it - as I more likely recalled the Avengers issues back when Hellcat's introduction and the Avengers battling Roxxon, as the time when the Serpent Crown became a problem for the Avengers.

Issues two to four had great characterization, build up and art (here's a sneak peek)... but rather than reinvent the wheel, let me just link you up to some Secret Avengers Reviews made by a fellow Secret Avengers lover - and Avengers Forever (avengersforever.org) regular, Greg Orzech, and when you're done reading these reviews which I very much agree with, we can get back to discussing why I think the Secret Avengers are the Real Avengers title out there right now.

Secret Avengers Credits go to Ed Brubaker - writer, Mike Deodato & Rain Beredo - artists. All the images here from the Secret Avengers comic book were copied from various sites, and it is not my intent to plagiarize - soon as I remember where I got them I will place the necessary references (though I think I may have gotten them from Google searches or amazon.com).

Newspaper strips I remember (and miss)

2010-10-25T05:32:00.000-07:00

Today you can still see them in broadsheets - taking a pause form the daily news, to offer us some form of entertainment, an amusing tagline, or even a continuing adventure... and they come in many forms - be they Comedy, Science Fiction, Fantasy, or even Satire... I'm naturally talking about comic strips.

It, however, takes some patience to read these - specially the continuing adventure ones, since you'd be treated to three panels a day... maybe six if it were a Sunday script. These would normally just be in black and white - yet you could tell which ones were the really good ones. Two in particular that I really followed whenever I could were Prince Valiant and Secret Agent Corigan... and apparently, these two strips were literally decades apart.

Prince Valiant, for example was created by Hal Foster, a man I am still trying to familiarize myself with - but thanks to a new compilation of Prince Valiant, I am now able TO both familiarize myself with the creator -and his earlier works in Prince Valiant. Of course I could also let you read up on Hal through his Wikipedia link:

Hal Foster

Whatever would we do without Wikipedia?

Back to Prince Valiant. Why did this strip interest me? For starters, it's milieu happens to be during the time of King Arthur's Camelot and everything about it's majesty, nobility and a young prince wanting to be recognized as one worthy of joining Arthur's Knights of the Round Table.

Val has a noble heart, courage, and - at least, in his early years, obstinance to spare. I say this because in the strips I've followed, he already had a family, and he sometimes sees a bit of himself in his son.

Hal's art was also a great attraction to me. The man could draw anything... people, horses, backgrounds... he was a rel artist. Okay, maybe his dragons were too realistic (looking more like Commodo Dragons than... well, Dragons I've come to expect), but that aside... it would be hard to criticize Hal's work at all.

Hal gave his characters specific looks. You could determine one form another - and not just because of their colors or banners - nope. Hal gave each one a distinct look... and yeah, maybe Val most of all for his mop top hairstyle. But again, it goes to show how popular the series was - as movies about Prince Valiant had to have Val with that unique fashion sense... and who knows, maybe it too is authentic to history.

Aside from that, I wonder if Hal had help with his story... if he had an editor - because what I read in Prince Valiant was nothing short of prose-worthy at times. His Drawings and captions were a potent combination. Here is but a sample of how a cartoon with the right caption, can capture drama so eloquently.

Read the caption... go on, and tell me it does not strike a chord in you. Val speechless - yet his tears tell Aleta all she needs to know... wow... really, wow. I hope I can someday write something as beautiful. I don't even aspire to be at Hal's artistic level... for it may be asking too much.

The scene's snow-covered simplicity even adds to the poignancy of the moment.

Naturally, Hal Foster had every intention of having Val knighted... eventually that is. In fact, it seemed that King Arthur was ready to knight Val in Hal's early series, after the prince had donned an armor and joined a jousting tournament... but - and maybe in Hal's mischievous ways, we read that Val, after racking up impressive victories, is unseated, and embarrased at the crowd's laughter - he then leaves Camelot with shame - unaware of Arthur's pronouncements.

But that's okay... when the event finally happens, you can imagine that Hal has built the suspense worthy of such the event... a momentous occasion - even if it just happens to be comics.

Should the series have ended then and there, maybe many people would have been satisfied - and who knows? Maybe Hal had thought of this as well... but he didn't and we're all richer for it. Hal continues the adventures of Val - both as Knight, husband and even later... father.

These are just some reasons I loved reading Prince Valiant, and was rather frustrated when the paper I was reading somehow stopped its syndication. Boy was I frustrated. Worse still, I could not find compilations being sold. I had to wonder... was I the only one seeing this strip's quality? I later learned that due to it's country of origin, Prince Valiant, did not easily lend itself to being published in the U.S. I can only guess that the U.K had more luck distribution-wise, but since the Philippines markets were always more U.S. tied, well... I guess we drew the short end of the straw - distribution-wise.

Last weekend, though, things finally changed for the better. I discovered that the local bookstore had a copy of the newly released compilation of Prince Valiant... boasting that this was the best version ever - but neve mind the version technicalities, I'm just glad I've finally been able to find a copy of a compilation... period.

Now I can look forward to some relaxing weekend (or evening after work) where I can enjoy reading Prince Valiant once again - and this time, chronologically form the start. Just thinking about it makes me feel like a kid again - and I hope that someday Bryce (or even Bernice) gets to appreciate my having this book. I've already reserved parts 2 and 3 (and hopefully more) with instructions to call me should these tomes arrive.

Meanwhile, Chivalry, Honor and the Quests of Arthur's Camelot are once again alive! So with Prince Valiant finally within grasp - how about Secret Agent Corrigan?

Apparently, as this picture shows, Corrigan did not even start with a name - but just a number (well... actually, a combination of a name and number), but this was unknown to me. You see, as I read Corrigan in the dailies, the title was already 'Secret Agent Corrigan'. And should you have asked me if I liked Agent X-9, you'd see some confusion on my face.

So why did I like Secret Agent Corrigan? Maybe because of 007 - yes... a British Spy led me to liking the Spy genre, and as I read Secret Agent Corrigan, well the title sort of got me obviously curious... and who knows, maybe it was a marketing handle riding on the popularity of James Bond's movies.

Yes the U.S. had Flint... but he only had two movies - while Bond is still - to this date, churning out silver screen adventures. So I think it's safe to say who won that popularity contest.

Back to Corrigan... apparently, though I did not know it at the time, two familar (to me in the future) names would be responsible for Corrigan's dailies adventures - and unlike Hal Foster's near cinematically colorful renditions, Corrigan would be rendered in pure pulp-fiction black and white with shades of gray mood. Who were these two gentlemen? Al Williamson and Archie Goodwin, that's who.

In the strips I saw, I always noted Al's signature on the strip, so I naturally got to connect Al's name with 'Corrigan'. Archie was... well, a writer for Marvel Comics (and later on, a really influential person for D.C. as well). But I first saw their dailies collaboration in Star Wars.

By then, of course, I was very much familiar with Al's unique inks - the way he plays with shadows and uses patterns and not just checkered marks for shades of gray. His art was clean - and Corrigan was lean. If you look at Corrigan and somehow see Han Solo... well, you know why. I guess Al draws rough action-type people the same way (he he he). But it will always be Solo looking like Corrigan - not the other way around.

Even before I found out that Archie had a hand with Corrigan, I found some similarities with one of Corrigan's regular villain - a Yellow Claw like character, but I just chalked it up to stereotyping.

Guess I should have known that Archie was involved and if there was ever any steroetype... well, I guess we could likewise blame flash Gordon (another daily that these two apparently did) and Ming the Merciless.

By the way, did you notice how Corrigan's hair style changed from the relatively trip 60's to the wavier - but still somewhat conservative look of the 70's? Guess you could tell when he was more X-9 than Corrigan.

So there you have it... like Prince Valiant, Corrigan goes up against some strong opponent - but while Val has knights and magic to contend with, Coriggan has science and Egotistical maniacs with rogues to deal with. I certainly hope to find a compilation of Corrigan as well. Maybe I'll try asking around for X-9... I might get better results.

If you happen to like quality comic strips, I highly recommend these two. they may not be Tarzan or the Phantom... nor Flash Gordon either - but their adventures are worth following. BTW, as a parting trivia... Hal Foster was the artist who put the nobility in Tarzan as well; a move that succeeding artists of the Ape-man's adventures kept when they handled the Tarzan art reins.

Updates... sort of.

2010-10-18T19:11:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've added to this blog. Guess any time I have has been prioritized with my photoblog/project 365 - and lord knows even that is behind now by half a month. But I do have other things I wish to expound on - somethings that the my project 365 cannot hope to properly convey. Guess this is where I'll place them - just need to find time.

Living Life in the Zone - book review

2010-06-25T01:02:00.000-07:00

Living Life in the Zone – a 40-day Spiritual Game Plan for Men

Kyle Rote Jr. and Dr. Joe Pettigrew - authors

Thomas Nelson – Publisher

Rote and Pettigrew’s approach to the program was simple – start with a thought for the day, then proceed to the coach’s corner to listen to the lesson before getting to the game plan – mention a few playmakers (examples) and leave you with an assignment (your practice). If it sounds like a very sports-minded approach… it is.

Honestly? The lessons (Coach’s corner) were great learning points; but the playmakers sections were too U.S.-centric for me. Most of the time, I did not know any of the people being talked about – and this made the lessons’ impact suffer a bit. Plus, I’m not a really sports-minded individual, so these stories… though useful as examples, were not hooking me.

Using sports analogy myself – I fumbled in the 30-yard line, and reprioritized… but I would go back once in a while, pick the boon up. This time I read selective lessons – not the 40-day path. I focused on stories appealing to my wants and needs. I did appreciate the book‘s Zones on how to have a better relationship with my children and wife.

Simply put, I was the wrong audience for this book (not a sport enthusiast – strike one, not an American exposed to U.S. local sport – strike two, and not a big follower of this 40-day programs that half-interested me – strike three). Hence I struggled to read ‘…The Zone’ from cover to cover. Would this have been different if they made use of well known, international figures to fit the book’s examples? Maybe. It would have better sustained my interest..

my review as it appears in Barnes and Noble:
http://my.barnesandnoble.com/communityportal/review.aspx?reviewid=1410529

Back to being Fantastic?

2010-05-01T02:19:00.000-07:00

I've only recently, as in as recent as last week, decided to once again read and buy issues of Marvel Comics' Fantastic Four... a title that I have not really been paying any attention to these past years. For sure there were some isolated issues I got, simply for event cross-over reasons - but soon as that was done, I'd forget the title, feeling that it did not pique my curiosity enough to spend cash on.

What changed my mind? Jonathan Hickman's writing did. Mind you - I've hardly heard of the man... I just vaguely know he writes - and possibly draws... but as for his having a surefire hit for me to recognize him as a bankable (as in very good) writer - or artist for that matter; well, I hope Mr. Hickman does not find it insulting that I draw a blank. If he had other known works - it was probably in other titles I never followed. I believe it was in Image... so that explains my ignorance - he he.

So how'd I know about his work in FF? For starters, it's FF - so even if I don't pick it up, just like other Marvel titles, it's highly visible on the comic book racks - assuming, of course that the books are A) available - having been bought by the comic book shops, and B) not too quickly sold out. This means that there would be a strong possibility that I would possibly look it over, should my curiosity be piqued enough by it's cover... I know, don't judge a book... etc... but since comic books are more visual, covers do count as marketing vehicles.

But Jonathan's FF did not really have attention grabbing covers and shocking stories - at least, not as dramatic as the previous team of Millar and Hitch. The tandem of Hickman and Eaglesham were almost unheralded. So it was really easy to not notice FF. Though I would have to reassess the non=dramatic part later on when I would belatedly realize some of the adventures that Mr. Hickman would pen (as the two covers seem to hint at).

I can only describe my knowing about the current FF team - and stories, by way of the modern version for 'word of mouth'; i.e. fan-site forums... specifically Avengers Forever. It was here where I would peruse the topics of other comics and see how some colleagues in the forum would carp about how Hickman was dishing out great stories - and more importantly, great characterization for the Fantastic Four. So that got me curious... and curious, come next time I found myself in a comic shop, decided to 'review' (more like quickly scan) the current issue's contents - maybe look at a few of the back issues as well... all in the spirit of deciding whether my colleagues knew what they were talking about, or if it was all just an empty scam.

What I saw was a story focusing on events - but centered on a family of adventurers. This was not your two-dimensional characters with powers... Hickman gave the Fantastic Four their much needed family persona. Not an easy task when so many people seem to like their heroes single and swinging... but yes, Jonathan finds that balance.

This particular issue for example (issue number 574) does not just feature Spider-man as a guest star... it centered on Franklin Richard's birthday party - an event rarely presented, yet totally humanizing for all the characters. He also, I'm glad to see, pulled back some kid characters from limbo - so it was great to see the likes of the Power Pack (who were long time friends of Franklin - he even became a fifth member of the team at one time) plus Artie and Leech from X-Factor's pages. Obviously, Mr. Hickman has been doing his research and loves the family - and even takes some strides to let his kids act naturally. Lest we forget, this issue also served as a jumping point to a future story arc as well. Oh yeah... the covers by another fan favorite artist - Alan Davis, are welcome treats too.

I'm a stickler for characterization - I need to see my heroes as believable. I don't expect to read soap in my comics - but I like to see them act human... act real... even if they have fantastic powers. With what I've seen in Hickman's FF, I'd say this fits the bill quite nicely, and have already informed my local comic shop to place FF into my 'buy' pile. Mind you, it's not Stan Lee, nor is it John Byrne... but Hickman's rendition of the FF seems to be family first, adventurers and heroes second.

If I were now asked if I were to recommend a few comic book titles - I would not hesitate to mention FF as a must try. Thanks Jonathan! I'm looking forward to a hopefully long tenure in the title.

Obstacles Welcome - a book review

2009-12-15T15:05:00.000-08:00

Obstacles Welcome
Ralph de la Vega (with Paul B. Brown) - authors
Thomas Nelson - Publisher

What’s good about a book by Ralph de la Vega? As a CEO he knows how busy people can be – he understands the importance of presenting his messages with clarity and focus, plus illustrations that add to the reader’s understanding. ‘Obstacles Welcome’ has all this in spades - plus something akin to an executive summary at every chapter’s end – how cool is that?

I tried reading the summary of two middle chapters first, just to test ‘If I were a very busy person, would this in itself give me the ideas that Ralph wishes to convey?’ Yes they did. However, if anyone simply did this, they would miss out on the main course of ‘Obstacles Welcome’, which is Ralph’s way of conveying the ‘whys’ of such ideas.

Like any great teacher or mentor, Ralph does not leave anything to chance, making sure that everything he communicates is clear. His necessary points in the book’s early chapters make for the proper foundation to his ideas in the succeeding ones. ‘You Get What you Measure’, ‘Spotting Opportunities’ and ‘Make the Journey About More Than You’, to name a few – are filled with his practices, beliefs, ideas and guideposts that any aspiring CEO should consider – that last one even introduces his Leadership Capability Model.

Ralph constantly reminds us that ‘A Vision without Action is just an Idea’. That said, I strongly suggest you buy this book and read it by next quarter. Make it a ‘must do’ goal. You’ll definitely thank Ralph (and me, hopefully) for it

Influence - a Book Review

2009-11-03T09:12:00.000-08:00

Influence: Science and Practice, 5th Edition
Author: Robert B. Cialdini
Publisher: Pearsons / Allyn and Bacon

All thinking creatures – including man, learn from experience. Some first hand – and others, through… well others, meaning either by observation or by stories of lessons learned. In some instances, these come in forms of norms… values, maybe even beliefs handed down several generations - in others, through experimentation via the scientific method.

Some of there experiences appear cut and dried that we automatically know that if A happens, then B follows. For example: a mother comes a calling – so the children come out to greet her. Basic stuff that the mind need not think too much of… and which Bob (I hope he doesn’t mind my referring to him in this manner, after all, that’s how Tom Peters calls to him) refers to as a short cut to a cause and effect behavior he’s dubbed the ‘click-whir’.

Once this shortcut concept is explained, Bob then begins our journey into how these shortcuts can be used by others to influence us without our knowing. Yup… influence in this book may be seen as manipulative – but I guess it depends on which side of the fence you’re in. Still, Bob, explains these behaviors and is supported with a lot of research and readers of the previous editions, chiming in and sharing their experiences. Mix these ingredients up and we have a powerful insight into the hidden, albeit, subconscious habits of our minds.

As I was reading this book, I too thought that I should have learned this much sooner – that way, I would know intellectually, what my gut feel was often telling me whenever I was getting into a bad deal. Yes, I don’t consider myself having ‘provincial’ mindset – and I’ve had some hard knocks city lessons… but I’ve also fallen prey to some quick and slick – but thankfully, not too costly, scams. That should let you all know the importance and value of this book. If it can educate everyone to watch out for these manipulative techniques, then its cover price is paid for almost 10 times over – maybe even more.

Bob covers a multitude of lessons – more than I can ever give justice to describe in a short (or medium length) review. Suffice it to say, there are a lot… really, a whole lot.. Topics range from Reciprocation, Commitment and Consistency, Social Proofs, Liking – or what is also called the ‘Halo effect’, Authority, Scarcity, and Instant Influence – or how some people make themselves look or come across differently.

How has reading this helped me? In Bob’s case, he’s given us the modus operandi of many ‘schemers’ and now, it’s up to his readers to be forewarned – and forearmed against these schemers. Oh yeah… and it seems, we’re not the only creatures with the ’click-whir’ mentality. Animals have them – as in the example I gave earlier… some predators got to learn how to my mimic the call of the mother, So the younglings obviously rushed to their deaths. Thank God we’re not so easily fooled, right? Right?

Thanks Bob – the book really helped.

note: cover image courtesy of amazon.com and thanks to Calen Legaspi (Orange and Bronze) for lending me this book

My next book review assignment,,,

2009-10-20T23:51:00.000-07:00


Buy		Read

This is my next Thomas Nelson book review assignment. Looks promising, since it promises to give some insight to perseverance and a glimpse of AT&T's world. Meanwhile, as I await the book (it may take a month for the book to arrive), I'll also be reading this - as well as other books. I might even place reviews of other books, as well as a more in-depth review of Everyday Greatness.

Everyday Greatness – a book review

2009-10-20T23:00:00.000-07:00

Everyday Greatness – inspiration for a meaningful life
Stephen R. Covey and David K. Hatch - Authors
Rutledge Hill Press (a division of Thomas Nelson) - Publisher

My first impression? ‘A new book by Stephen Covey!' Having owned three of his previous works, I was eager to see what additional wisdom he had to impart. Upon scanning it however, I was a bit disappointed to realize that Stephen only gave commentaries, and that the book was actually a compilation of articles from Reader’s Digest. So… was I tricked? Sure looked that way – still, the adage ‘Don’t judge a book by it’s cover’ came to mind, so… read on I went.

I’m glad I did!

Stephen does give his readers three specific challenges to do everyday to help them become people of ‘transition’ i.e. someone transitioning from a challenging situation –and focusing on positive efforts, rather than wallowing in self-pity.

These three challenges to Everyday Greatness are:
• The Choice to Act - your energy
• The Choice of Purpose - your destination
• The Choice for Principles - the means for attaining your goals
He then uses selected Reader’s Digest stories to expound Everyday Greatness into seven categories with three principles each.

As an avid Reader’s Digest reader back then, this book felt like coming back to a pleasant place I’ve not been to for quite some time. What Stephen did with these chosen stories, though, was to give examples of the principles in action – proving to us that ‘Everyday Greatness’ is not a lofty, near-impossible goal. Others (some famous; some not so) achieved this. So can we.

I definitely recommend this book! Read it, reflect on its principles… then become a person of transition.

My more indepth review of The Noticer

2009-07-13T21:52:00.000-07:00

First an explanation - the shorter review was my official version for the book. It's a marketing tool - hoping that reviews by readers will help others who've yet to decide, if a book is worth it. The catch? You can't be too long - it puts the reader off, and a 200 word count is suggested... another catch? You can't divulge details in the book.

Man... the first was hard to comply with - as it took me several iterations to trim, trim and trim more of what I wanted to do; but the second... now there was a challenge... how to sound interesting, without saying anything about the book's contents - a near impossible task, and personally, I would not really feel inclined to think such reviews solid... after all, it's easy to sound exciting - but why are they excited? See where I'm getting at?

So what I have here is a more detailed - spoiler alert version, though I will try to remain vague, where I can - I guess you can compare this version (the original one) to the shortened one... see if one is better than the other. Me? I like sharing - and I do tend to be verbose in a written sense.

So... on to my review...

It’s ended… and as I close the book’s last chapter, I think to myself – what a great book this was… filled with a lot of insight, wisdom… and yes – definitely filled with perspectives worth thinking about… and worth reading about. My only regret? It has ended.

I naturally refer to the book by Andy Andrews ‘The Noticer’, and before I continue, let me just make a few statements clear – though I own another book of Andy’s work, namely ‘The Traveler’s Gift’, I confess to having yet not finding the time to read it. It’s just stacked above my headboard – along with nearly a hundred other books – about less than a half of them yet to be read. You could say that it is my roundabout way of saying that I had not read any book of Andy’s in the past – hence I was not really a fan.

So what was it about ‘The Noticer’ that got the book noticed and read? Honestly speaking – it was the challenge to make a review about any book… yet with so many to choose from, why this in particular? I guess, at this particular point in time, Jones needed to touch my life – and I needed to consider a new perspective.

The thing is, I’m still debating if Andy’s work belongs in non-fiction or fantasy, and am still leaning more on the former – rather than the latter… yes the premise is fantastic… and it’s a touching tale about an old man simply named Jones – with no need for any prefixes like ‘Mister’; how he touches the lives of people he comes to meet. How he just shows up in your life in your greatest times of need… when you would do well with a change of perspective. Lord knows I probably needed Jones at one time or another.

As I followed Andy’s adventure – as it became apparent, that the young man was indeed Andy telling his tale about how he met Jones; written from the first person perspective, with a few third party stories to be shared, I found the story easy to read, and relate with… and yes, I think a chapter or two may be something I needed a little more perspective with.

My one concern, as I was continuing the story, would have been how – having not read some of the biographies of certain people, I would miss out on certain cultural/historical reference points. Though, that in itself gave me another assignment… checking Wikipedia’s contents about these historical figures – at least the one’s I did not recognize. Still, Andy gives enough background stories of these people and their importance to the ongoing tale.

Living in Asia, I will just have to take Andy’s word for everything written about the location of said book’s story – one I would like to visit… to see where all these transpired, to maybe rub shoulders with the people Jones may have helped… to see the worn out luggage. But even if I do not see all these, the more important aspect would already have been done… wisdom residing within the books pages have been absorbed, and the potential for new perspectives have been planted – and hopefully, with that, a better life can be started.

The tale is easy to digest – the chapters engaging, and I can’t believe I finished the book in almost one sitting… okay, I did it in two actually; and it is that entertaining and easy a read – see, the first time was just to get a feel of the book and absorb the first two chapters… the rest, I definitely did in one sitting. As I absorbed the story, I came across wishing that I, too, had met Jones… or whatever he would call himself in my part of the world… for I would have wanted his perspective in how I was doing with my life – but I guess, I will need to settle with the book itself.

What makes this tome extra useful can be found at the back there are study guide questions which can be tackled in book clubs – or by someone’s reflecting on said questions and possibly answering them at a blogsite – as I plan to do, or make a written version by way of one’s journal. I will also definitely try looking into thenoticerproject.com to see what else I can glean from the infinite wisdom of Jones.

I leave you with an obvious question regarding Jones’ identity… so who was he? God? Then again, I think… does finding this answer really important or significant? For even if Jones turned out to be just what his appearances suggests – that is, as an old vagabond. I will need to remember that you can’t judge a person – or whatever Jones is. By appearance alone. If eyes are mirrors to one’s soul – it is no wonder that the people that Jones talked to were always drawn to his intense blue eyes – or do they seem to change colors too? Again, it matters not. What matters are the lessons ingrained within this book’s pages – and the seeds we hopefully will plant afterward.

Coming soon... my next review assignment:

The Noticer (a book review)

2009-07-13T19:57:00.000-07:00

The Noticer

Andy Andrews - author

Thomas Nelson - publisher

The premise is simple… Jones, an old man – one we’ve probably seen in our neighborhood, moves from place to place in Orange Beach, Alabama – and touches the lives of people he comes to meet – just by talking to them; making them realize a different perspective. There are several such encounters with Jones, so expect several lessons.

What was it about ‘The Noticer’ that got me to read it? Honestly? The title – and the premise seemed intriguing. I can only guess that I was wondering what exactly a Noticer does; and maybe... Jones – the book’s main character, needed to touch my life give me a new perspective on a few things… I specifically like the chapter on the languages of Love. I wont spoil things here... read the book. I highly recommend it!

It is a wonderful story, filled with wisdom – and yes… 'perspective'. Is this just a ‘half-filled’ glass thing? No – although it can be connected to such an idea - Andy tells us more than that, specially how such perspectives can help us change… in very simple, understandable concepts.

One slight concern… anyone not having read some of the biographies of people that Andy – through Jones, points out, might miss out cultural/historical reference points; though one can always use Wikipedia to learn more, I guess.

Other than that, it was a great read, and I sincerely hope I get to meet Jones, or someone like him, one day.

Shadows Inc. - Enter the Hydra

2009-06-06T07:23:00.000-07:00

Shadows Inc. Journal
History File 04
Enter the Hydra

Roll Call : Anthony Baker a.k.a. Sleuth
Derek Lone a.k.a. Scythe
Benjamin Templeton a.k.a. Reflex
Hillary McTallee a.k.a. Fireflash

Antagonists : HYDRA

“I’ll need a larger weapon” is what Baker tells Lone in a matter of fact tone – one neither belying either fear or desperation, rather one faced with the simple truth that they are about to get into a fire fight, and they may well be in the short end of such a battle. At another time, Lone could have dismissed this as a mere statement from Tony, but for the outstretched hand of Tony towards him, showing an expectation for him to give Tony such a weapon.

“Okay…” Lone answers, “…what do you have in mind?” – he asks this while observing their pursuers who at this time, were busy trying to trace their whereabouts. Both know, however that their cat-and-mouse game will soon come to an end, as both Tony Baker and Derek Lone run out of hiding places – by way of your typical New York alley ways.

Baker thinks a while, then responds, “Nothing too extravagant, or attention-getting, but one with enough firepower to stop these bastards – or at least scare them off our tail.” Lone reaches into his coat, gives a semblance of concentration, and brings out a pair of MAC 11s – small and compact, but with its quick-firing capacity, definitely one to scare away anyone dogging them.

Tony looks at them with awe… apparently not used to handling such merchandise, but he quickly acclimatizes himself with these – finding the safeties, checking the magazines, before Lone mentions that they’re full. “How do we do this?” he finally asks Lone. “Well…” Derek thinks awhile, “…I can draw them off; distract them, giving you a chance to hit them in a flanking manner. Maybe once they realize we’ve got a lot more ordnance than they thought, they’ll change their mind following us.” He then hands Tony another device… and earpiece, and a small pocket-sized radio. “It’s preset to a particular frequency; “Keep that in your ear, so we don’t lose contact with each other – and while we’re doing this try calling that S.H.I.E.L.D. guy again.”

Before Tony can ask how Derek intends to cross the street without being seen, Derek stoops to a manhole cover, concentrates, and suddenly disappears – dropping into a ‘now open’ manhole. Initially surprised, he realizes that this must be another manifestation of his partner’s power. “Why not?” he thinks, “…if he can make things appear, then he can make things disappear too.”

Using the sewers as his means of travel, Derek Lone takes stock of where the Hydra agents are relatively located from his starting point… and after traveling a few blocks back, he goes back up to street level and seeks the lab coats that he knows as the disguise of said Hydra agents.

He briefly 'spots' the group and – after making sure the ‘coast is clear’ of any innocent bystanders, he gives the Hydra agents a short burst from his MAC 11… more to scare them than hit them. At that same moment, Tony has just finished talking to someone on the number supplied by Agent Jones, and quickly briefed him of their situation… and upon hearing the short burst, decides to carefully move forward to their pre-arranged rendezvous point. He sees the ‘lab coats’ scampering towards the direction of the shots – thought in an erratic manner.

Lone sees the ‘labs’ moving towards him, thus reaffirming his thoughts that these people will not just give up without a fight, which makes him wonder more about what is inside the vial that makes these people quite desperate that they are willing to take the chance of getting shot. He also notes that the return fire he receives are not projectile-based, but more light ray specific… but ones with deadly effect as well. “Lasers?” he thinks.

Unknown to all concerned, the gun-battle does not go unnoticed, first by a man, standing six feet two inches, black-haired, relatively lean and one distinguishing feature… a slight limp on one side – and in close scrutiny, one would see and understand that this man was a long ago victim of the Polio disease. His name is Benjamin Templeton, middle aged Caucasian, and leaning on a cane.

Having seen what has transpired, Ben quickly realizes that the lab gown clad people are the seeming oppressors. He decides to try and help in his own manner… concentrating… and in doing so, perception of his immediate surrounding shifts… invisible energies start to show themselves around him, and begin to cover his frame.

His features fade, as these energies begin forming lines from his head to a foot… the polio damaged one, and for some inexplicable reason, he now can stand on his own… the cane set aside. He concentrate further, and starts extending his energy slowly – then holing it back, gets ready to spring such an energy like a whip.

While this is happening, another pair of eyes follow the chase – though unlike Ben, these belong to a relative youthful looking male, his eyes betray an almost eager persona - ready to jump into the fray and help in whatever way he can.

Hilary McTallee, relatively youthful, around 5'10", is eager to see what he can do – having recently discovered his abilities… and raring to prove himself as a hero… he has considered hanging out in New York, where all the action seems to gravitate, and apparently, he thinks - he was right about that assumption. He decides to track anyone involved in this seeming fracas – secretly hoping for some action before the proper authorities arrive.

At last count, Derek saw four agents, and he tries taking mental note of these… he is also open to the fact that there may be more that he has not seen. The odds don’t look too good, but he’s got surprise on his side… which he puts to good use - going through several locked doors or barred windows - always careful no one sees him, as he cuts across the agents' rear.

Expecting his two opponents to be up ahead, the rear-most Hydra agent is definitely blindsided by Lone who is able to deck the assailant in the rear of his head. The move is enough to render the agent unconscious, but more importantly, silent enough not to alert anyone else. A situation Derek hoped for and counted on.

Lone then cuts across to another assailant – he feels the urgency to move fast – after all, there’s a good chance that these four are coordinating their attacks – and in doing so, will be outfitted with communication equipment like Baker and him. Checking his periphery carefully, he spots another ‘lab coat’ who seems more intent with covering himself from the front – and worrying less about his rear… an understandable – but flawed assumption.

“Two down, sucker” he whispers to himself, as he shoots the agent with his MAC 11s.

Meanwhile, in one alley, likewise keeping himself hidden, Ben Templeton’s blurry appearance forms something akin to a localized whirlwind of energy, and though his face now seems blurry, it can be seen that he is indeed focusing… then, he moves his hands in a synchronous circular manner; one above, the other below, before suddenly meeting together with a clap, and pushing motion - no one but him, seeing an invisible force swiftly moving forward.

Simultaneously, across the street, a Hydra agent falls backwards, as if hit on the solar plexus by an invisible hand, or more accurately an invisible mule's kick, the agent lands hard, groans and and remains on the floor… unable to get up, literally unaware of what hit him. Ben relaxes a bit, and the energy disperses; he then picks up his cane, and moves on to his next target, readying his 'Chi' for another attack, shoud the need arise.

While walking, Ben is overtaken by a running Anthony Baker, who sees the unconscious Hydra agent, stops to tie him up while thinking that this unconscious Hydra agent is a result of Derek’s handiwork, Tony addresses Ben, “Sir… there seem to be terrorists in the immediate vicinity – and for your safety, I suggest you move back and let my colleague and I handle this.”

Without waiting for a reply, Tony continues forward… giving Ben a final glance, as he just says ”Stay back, okay?” then moves on - and Ben Templeton simply smiles… allowing Tony to 'herd him' aside, before once again moving slowly – making sure that this relatively new ‘hero’ of New York; yes he recognizes and is referring to Tony’s appearance from the television - does not get into any situation he can’t walk away from.

So help Tony he will… even if the man does not know it yet.

Meanwhile, one Hydra agent is busy trying to contact his companions – thinking that they hear his but are not willing to break radio silence. He hears the words, “Hey Bozo!” and when he turns – weapon rising, he receives a face full of white light – overwhelming his senses and rendering him catatonic… thus does this particular Hydra agent fall to Hillary’s attack.

Mctallee then blows the muzzle of a strange-looking gun. “Gotcha!” he says gleefully… and moves onward. The flash he uses is noticed by everyone, though, and draws their attention – including that of one Hydra agent… who comes running – with laser rifle firing. Hillary jumps behind a trash can, and curses himself for not noticing the other agent before grandstanding. He gets ready to return fire.

Lone likewise sees the Hydra agent, and takes careful aim with his weapon – but before he can pull his trigger, he sees the agent fall forward, as if he was pushed hard from behind. But he did not see anyone hear the , he agent… much less see any reason why the agent fell forward real hard.

‘What tripped him?’ thinks Derek, but not too long, as he quickly concludes, ‘hnh… just his – and my luck’; and as his weapons on hand disappear, he then spots an approaching Tony a few blocks away – and from his partner’s look – the detective is equally confused with the Hydra agent’s actions… stooping down to inspect said agent.

As he is about to relax, Derek sees another figure quickly approaching Tony, right hand hidden in a coat, obviously getting something, maybe a weapon – a figure that Tony hasn't noticed at all. Quick decision and adrenaline take over, as Derek yells to Tony – giving him instructions to dive as he fires with a new set of sub-machine guns that conveniently appear at his hands.

The rushing figure, cut down with a hail of bullets, literally stops on his tracks, his facial expression more of shocking surprise as his hand appears to show he was holding a wallet.

Tony looks back, assessing the threat, but stops short as he notices said wallet with a familiar badge of S.H.I.E.L.D. being partially exposed. Turning to look at the quickly approaching Lone, he sees in his partner’s face the same shocking realization that he – Derek Lone, had just shot down a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent.

Without waiting, Tony grabs the fallen agent and checks for a pulse – satisfied that he feels one, although relatively weak, he offers as much first aid as he can – but his trained eyes assess the damage and he knows that even with immediate medical attention, this agent may not make it through such injuries. This does not stop him from pressing down some arteries – making tourniquets with his and the agent’s loose clothing. He realizes that someone else is beside him, helping… by applying CPR. A man with a cane it seemed.

Lone is just standing – watching, in shock. He hardly notices a young man approach… look at the fallen man being helped and simply saying ‘Bummer’. This young man then notices a Red Ferrari approach them, and utters some expletives as he realizes that the Ferrari has just risen and is now hovering… with a few hidden ordinances suddenly appearing from the car’s hood… all of it aimed at them.

“Don’t move! You are all under arrest for assaulting an agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.!” the driver’s voice carries itself loud and clearly through the car’s loudspeaker… it’s speaker’s tone, obviously vehement.

“Weapons down and put your hands up where I can see ‘em. Any slight move and I open fire!” comes the next warning message. Derek raises his hands, so do Hilary and Tony who tries shouting that this incident was all a misunderstanding. Ben continues with the CPR.

Meanwhile, Derek is looking down, seemingly quiet, dejected and defeated… until - he suddenly, without any warning, drops down. The ground he was stepping on, the place he carefully positioned himself on, now showing an open manhole - it's cover, what he was standing on, having suddenly just disappeared. The car tries firing a few rounds – out of frustration, and as a warning to the remaining people.

Tony Baker can only look as incredulous as the S.H.I.E.L.D. agent towards the open manhole. His one thought being 'Just great partner… of all the stupid stunts, this one just took the cake.' He looks at the S.H.I.E.L.D. agent through the windshield, shakes his head a bit and raises his hands slightly higher.

to be continued...

STAR TREK WIDGET

2009-03-30T18:08:00.001-07:00

Shadow's Inc. - Along came a Hydra

2009-01-13T20:34:00.000-08:00

Shadows Inc. Journal
History File 03
Along came a Hydra

Roll Call : Anthony Baker a.k.a. Sleuth
Derek Lone a.k.a. Scythe

Guest Appearance: Gabriel Jones agent of S.H.I.E.L.D.

Antagonists : HYDRA, (the HAND)

“Are you sure you’ve given us all the pertinent information Mr. Baker?” This statement coming form a clean cut, African American, in a black suit that reminds Tony somehow of the movie, ‘Men in Black’ – but the suit was all he had in common with the movie, as the rest of him looked like he was more built like… well, Wesley Snipes, minus the attitude... and a decade older. But his stance, and demeanor aside, Baker could read the battle readiness of this person, should the need arise.

This told him something, even if the man in front of him had not told him so… this was no ordinary federal officer – then again, he never did say he was from the F.B.I. Though there were some of those people too, this man and his equally built partner – both wearing shades as they entered, waved the FBI boys aside with their identifications. Needless to say, the FBI boys were not thrilled, but these guys apparently won the right to talk to both Baker and Lone… alone.

“I believe I’ve mentioned everything to you, Mr. Jones…”; while thinking if ‘Jones’ really is his first name… though he was not in any position to argue with the man right now. Nope, Baker had to think that had this man wanted both him and Derek lone dead, he’d have done so already.

Mr. Jones looks at him – then to Derek for a few seconds then stands up from the couch, he straightens his suit jacket, pulls something from out of his pocket and says “Okay then… we’ll be on our way, but should you remember anything else, please do not hesitate to give us a call”, while offering his card to Tony.

As his partner leaves, he pauses for a while – as if to try and remember something, then does – “Oh, yeah… by the way, those guys that allegedly attacked you…”

“Alleged?! What, you don’t really believe us?” blurts Derek.

Facing Derek , Mr. Jones simple states matter-of-factly, “Alleged… Mr. Lone, because as we are all aware, there is no body – and with exception to ashes and some loose ninja-type clothing, there IS no proof of these ninjas ever having been here. I’m just stating facts… and to be blunt… no… I don’t trust you. You both seem to be hiding something, and rather than be helpful to us, I find your story plausible – bus as believable as disappearing ninjas.”

“So we can do it this way… I’ll turn you two back to the FBI – after all, you’ve proven to be of little help and less use to us. Let them go by the book with you guys… or we can start all over again, I’ll see what I can do with our friends down the corridor”, pointing to where the FBI had withdrawn to.

A moment of silence fills the room, until Tony finally breaks the ice… “Mr. Jones – I hope you see my position… I was just recently attacked by your ‘alleged’ ninjas, putting me near death. My partner here, Mr. Lone, nearly had the same fate, had it not been timely for emergency room staff and nurses to get to him when they did.”

“Given this scenario, we’re still shaken up and recovering as best we can. We’ve been cooped up here for three days, and I’m beginning to wonder if there’s still something wrong with us, or whether… this is an elaborate ruse to get me – us to stay here for as long as the authorities want.”

“Fair enough, Mr. Baker. Tell you what I’ll do. I’m willing to give you 24 hours to get things in order – set your place up and all, after which, I will expect a call or visit from you two with whatever else information you may have about our good friend, Doctor Mitchell. We’ve contacted his family, but since you were the last people to see him before his death, I’m hoping he said or showed you something… anything that may have been part of his work, and definitely something that might be the reason for him losing his life.”

“That’s a generous offer, gentlemen… one I’m not in the habit of giving out freely to anyone. I suggest you take it to think thins through – oh, and by the way, Mr. Lone… you are an intriguing case from my standpoint. I can’t seem to find any records of you since your brief military service, and that in itself raises some flags – I’ve read some suspected gun-running or smuggling cases, and I believe our FBI friends would really want to keep you here, under their care longer. But cooperate with me on this, and I can keep them at arm’s length. Your choice.”

And seeing Baker’s reaction to this, Mr. Jones simple says “Oh, you didn’t know? Well, that explains it. You might want to get to know ‘your partner’ a little better Detective… he may be handy in a gun battle, but you have to know why that is so. Anyway, I’ll say my goodbyes… 24 hours gentlemen.”

As the door closes, Tony is about to talk, but Derek raises a hand and says in low tones “Not yet…” while eyeing the shadows from under the door’s lower gap against the waxed hospital floor. He then produces a small device, turns it on and sets it on the table before he say “…okay, now we can talk.”

Baker looks at the device wondering, ‘where’d he hide that?’, but shakes the thought back to discuss more immediate things. Derek notices him taking a deep breath before finally starting with “Mind telling what that comment and this gizmo is all about? Are you wanted or anything like that?”

Lone picks himself up, goes to the closet to get his clothes as he talks, “Remember what I said in the diner about gifts?” To which Tony vaguely recalls… the two of them, having a conversation just after Charlie insisted that Tony’s meal was on the house…

Him starting the conversation by asking… “Mr. Lone, I hope you don’t mind my asking a question…”; “Hey, no problem – lets hear it.”, is the reply he gets... oh, and call me Derek.”

“All right, Derek, why do you avoid becoming the center of attention? I mean, first you disappear after the escaped Gorilla was solved, and now – right after your ape impression… when people were starting to look our way, I notice you duck out again?”

Derek looks straight into his eye and answers matter-of-factly, “Well Tony, hope I can call you that…” Tony nods, and Derek continues”, “I’m not too fond of attention, and I’d be happy if I’m just ignored by most strangers. I carefully choose my friends…” this said, as he gestures to Charlie, and I’d rather be safe than sorry. I added that, since I noticed you wonder earlier why I chose this particular sitting place.”

“How did you…?” Tony starts asks – obviously taken by surprise, “Relax Tony, I don’t read minds – but I can read faces, and you just don’t have a poker face, so your eyes, eyebrows and mouth were dead giveaways… just like now.”

Tony catches himself and composes his features. He clearly feels at a disadvantage here, so he goes straight to the point. “Derek, please, no more games, what are we doing here? Why did you want to meet?”

“All business now, huh? Okay… Like I said Tony, I can read people well – it’s a talent I have, but it’s not my real talent. I’m guessing, by what I’ve observed about you in the Gorilla event that you may have some hidden talents too… and maybe, just maybe, we can be partners in setting up an investigation agency – I mean, hope you don’t mind, but I Googled you – basically learned about your past through all the articles the internet could find, and through that, I also know why you’re here.”

‘He Googled me?’, Thinks Tony… ‘why didn’t I think of doing the same thing to Mr. Lone?’ “You’d hardly find anything about me… remember? Low profile?” Tony giving Derek an annoyed look is confirmation that he guessed right again, and he backs out “Hey, Just saying… I again noticed your expression when I mentioned Google. Hope I didn’t freak you”

“No, you didn’t” Tony lies… waiting to see if Derek would react. He does not – which means, he either got away with it, or Derek allowed him to. “Anyway…” he brings the topic back on track, “… you were saying about talents? What do you mean?” This time, Derek notices, Tony is keeping his emotions close to his sleeve – not betraying it with any facial expression.

“Call it a hunch… but your investigative acumen, those cases you solved – even the cold ones… I don’t know why no one thought about it before, but no one’s that good, Tony… you’re keeping something close to your sleeve, and I’m going out of my way here in guessing it may be a special talent you have… maybe a power of sorts?”

As he mentions this last statement, Derek closely observes Tony’s reaction – and there it is, a slight raise of the eyebrow, the pupil dilating before Tony gives a reply… “Powers…? Ridiculous.”

Derek looks at Tony for a few heartbeats, before he says “Alright, so you don’t want to talk about it.”, then after looking left and right, making sure no one is listening or looking at them, he leans closer… “What if I showed you my special talent?”

Tony returns from his recalling their conversation, and looks at Derek, who by now is almost fully dressed up and handing him his set of clothes… “You said you were going to show me your ‘talents’…, Baker mentions, as he accepts the clothes. “… but our conversation was cut when we both noticed Dr. Mitchell coming out from the alley.”

“Yup, never did get to show you that, as things just became too hectic for us.” Lone confirms… “But I guess, now’s as good as any.”, and with this statement, Derek brings out a few handguns from his pockets, plus a few items that look like grenades. He gets the reaction he was expecting, an incredulous look by Baker – seeing yet, not entirely believing what he saw before him, yet reacting first to what he did notice… “Are you insane?! Put all those things away!”, then after a second or two, as he does what Tony said – “Hold on… where were you keeping all those, how come no one in the hospital or security got to see those?”

“That… detective is my talent. I don’t need these pockets, nor this coat – this is just to allay suspicion, but these armaments come from somewhere and I can pull them out or put them back in, just by touching them.”

“So you’ve an endless supply of those?” Baker asks, starting to grasp the ‘talent’. “Well, not exactly… I can pull out what I put in – but I can’t just whip out anything that I have not placed in… if that makes sense to you. Think of it this way… I have… for lack of a better word, a personal portable storage area somewhere from not around here. It allows me to keep things, and have them within reach on the need to use basis – all I have to think is Glock, and presto… ”, a Glock pistol appears at his left hand… “…or I think Gatorade, and…”, a Gatorade, grape flavor, appears in his right hand.

“So whad ya think?” asks Lone with a smile that seems slightly like a smirk, as he lets both times disappear again.

“That is amazing! Doesn’t that mean you’re some kind of mutant?” asks Tony. “That is why I wear the trench coat – it’s to disguise my ‘talents’… after all, you’ve seen how popular mutants can be… and I don’t want the publicity either way.” Seeing Baker fully dressed now, he gestures to the dor while picking up his little gizmo – “C’mon, we’ve got less than 24 hours to get things in order… so lets not waste it here.”

“Don’t tell me… you even got the kitchen sink in there too?”

“Don’t be ridiculous, how do you expect me to use a kitchen sink as a weapon?”

As they leave the hospital, they walk towards baker’s pad, and maybe… due to their previous encounter, thus keeping them keenly aware fo their surroundings, the two men spot a few people in the crowd shadowing them…, as they try to loose their tail and round a corner, closer inspection by Lone, with the help of a mirror reveal that there are several of them, and having lost the two – they decide to split up.

One of their followers, move toward their direction, upon reaching their corner, he gets ambushed and dragged in by both Derek and Lone, and is quickly rendered unconscious. While Lone looks to see if his companions noticed their friend suddenly missing, Baker looks through the man’s clothing for any identification.

What he sees instead, gives him some sudden goose bumps. Hidden inside the man’s normal clothing seems to be some kind of small scientific device – one that does not look like a communicator – but when turned off, the man’s clothes suddenly change into a green uniform, one with some yellow trimmings forming the letter ‘H’ on the chest. Though he has never met any of these types before, Baker well recognizes the uniform and what it represents.

“Derek…” he says in a slightly tentative manner.

“In a minute… just need to make sure we weren’t noticed.” Is the reply Baker gets.

“I think I know who they are…” is all Baker can say. To which Lone finally takes a peek, followed by some swear words, before Baker confirms what Lone finds obvious with the uniform… “He’s from HYDRA… they’re from HYDRA… we’re being followed by HYDRA!”

“No $h!t, Sherlock… I kinda came to that conclusion a few second ago… now what?” Is all Lone can say as he adds a little sarcasm to rum the near panic state tha the hears from Baker, as he stares at the unconscious body of a HYDRA agent.

“Now?" Baker takes a deep breath and grounds himself, "Now we really have to get help…"; though this time the words come out matter-of-fact like, "We’re being chased by Ninjas and Terrorists, whatever is in that vial must be really important." Looking at Derek, he continues "I think its time to give Mr. Jones a call. We need help with this… this is way over our heads.” Baker says, while pulling out a cell phone and shaking his head.

Lone, however, notices the demeanor of Baker - that of a man pushed back more than enough, and now getting ready to take a stand.

Shadows Inc. - the Vial

2009-01-04T22:36:00.000-08:00

Shadows Inc. Journal
History File 02
The VIAL

Roll Call : Anthony Baker
Derek Lone

Antagonists : the HAND (ninja assassins)

New York on a Tuesday evening – its been a very hectic day, as Derek Lone stares at the hospital bed where Anthony Baker lies, recovering from an attack – and if stories are to be believed, Baker himself successfully stopped an attempt on his life… or make that, partially successful, since he ended up in here. How did this happen? He can’t really tell – no sing of any antagonist could be found – with possible exception to some ashes on the floor, and overturned furniture, there was no one else in Baker’s apartment when he arrived. In fact, it was just luck that he was close by – having just met and exchanged numbers with Baker this morning.

He thinks back at the conversation they had…

The meeting took place at noon – in a place called Josie’s. Baker arrived 15 minutes early, to case the joint, it would seem, and he immediately liked the ambiance. It was a bar that likewise served food. Not too pricy… just right. The lunch menu was decent.

Derek was already there and he had chosen his usual spot, a corner table with his back against the concrete wall, and he raised his arm to get Tony’s attention. Tony sees him, approaches and takes the offered seat. Derek then calls the bar’s proprietor, Charlie, to both introduce him to Tony and get Tony’s order while they’re at it.

Apparently, Charlie recognized Tony from all the TV exposure he had after the Ape caper – good, this means that Tony was indeed a viable partner to an investigative agency, with Tony as the recognized face, while he would work in the background – away form the spotlights… the way he prefers it. Charlie hollers to everyone in the bar to point out that a local hero chooses to dine at Josie’s – that’s Charlie… taking every opportunity for free marketing… and cheap at that, since, all Tony got was a free drink.

Derek gets drawn back to the present as he looks at the nurse enter Tony’s room, if frequency is any indicator; this same nurse has fallen into a routine which could mean that Tony’s condition has stabilized – though it was touch and go for a while, after all, they had to surgically remove a shuriken from Tony’s left eye – a souvenir from the missing assailant. Derek shakes his head… was Tony fighting a Ninja? Did this have anything to do with the vial? He recalls again…

They were getting into the thick of their intended conversation, when they notice someone by the bar’s window seemingly staggering, then falling to the ground. They both rush out – apparently just two of a possible handful of people who’d noticed the man – and apparently, only the two who decided to go out to help.

There were some typical New Yorkers standing around, while others were calling 911, but apparently, both he and baker were the first to reach the fallen person and carefully turn him over.

Tony tried to help the man, who seemed delirious and feverish, telling him that help was on the way – a quick sizing up of the man seemed to make Lone think that this guy seemed to be some scientist or doctor – at least, the white lab gown he was wearing seemed to say that… and the ID connected to his shirt pocket seemed to verify that. All this, Derek took in with one sweep, while Tony was busy listening to something the man was seemingly whispering to him – then the hand-off. It was hardly noticeable, had it not been for Tony’s facial expression and the way he looked what was at his hand… a small vial… and a now seemingly convulsing doctor, who suddenly slumps limp and unconscious.

Unfortunately, unknown to the two… Derek was not the only one who noticed what Tony was holding. Two eyes… staring intently at what was happening from a few floors up in an adjacent building – his mission foiled temporarily, and with this new development, new instructions were needed… hence after seeing the crowd part as an ambulance came, the crimson-clad ninja assumes a meditative position to commune with his superior and report what has transpired.

As Lone and Baker watch the ambulance leave, Derek asks… “So, what did he tell you… and what’s with the vial?” Tony looks at him with an incredulous look, “He said that we must not let this fall into the hand… I guess he meant wrong hands. He also said this needed to be given to some organization called shield.

Lone’s internal radar bristles upon hearing the name and intent… the last thing he needs is to be wrapped up with some pseudo-militaristic squabble – after all, his laying low was basically to avoid any military organization leaning on him and his other business venture. “Maybe we should continue this conversation someplace more private.”, he says in a very serious tone – one that Tony notices at once. Thankfully, Tony Baker agrees with him and after they settle their bills at Josie’s – deciding to just have their lunch ‘to go’, they move to Tony’s apartment to discuss what this could all mean, and what to do next.

Back to the present, Derek again looks at his watch… its now close to midnight – the operation and recovery, having taken the best of three hours… and not just due to stitching up, but because of the need to counter some form of poison introduced to Tony Baker’s system. His being here, in the hospital right now, is insurance… just in case whoever did this to Tony might decide to finish what was started.

Derek realizes how stupid they were to go directly to Tony’s place, and not some other place that was safer… maybe more secure. It should have been his place, but he wasn’t really thinking too well – being preoccupied with the possibility of discovery from the military authorities. It was also amateurish of him, and Tony, not to make sure they were not being followed – though he did not consider anyone capable in non-detection, as these ‘ninjas’ are rumored to be. He decides that doing what-ifs and the blame game won’t help him or Tony now… best to be alert and prepared for anything. After one peek at Tony’s room, he decides a quick trip to the coffee machine a few yards down is what he needs.

As he moves toward the dispenser, he recalls their conversation in Tony’s apartment…

“Are you crazy?! We can’t just walk up to a pseudo-militaristic organization and hand this thing to them? They’ll have tons of questions, and they’ll probably want to detain us! Heck! They might even think we did the doctor in!” blurts Derek to a still recovering Tony, who then replies, “Okay, I’m sorry… its not everyday a man dies on me before handing a vial with a warning, you know.”

“I thought you worked in homicide?” blurts Lone, which is then countered by Baker, “And they were normally dead to begin with, so this is something new to me, alright?”. Lone then gestures for Baker to slow down… “Okay, okay… lets calm down – you wanted a Detective Agency, might as well start thinking like detectives and get used to this – besides, most of our clients will be living, from now on.”

“Ok…”; taking a few deep breaths, Tony seems to settle down, then he continues, “…so what do we do then?”; and quickly adds, “By the way, this does not mean were officially partners, we haven’t finalized anything regarding this.”

“What better way to see if we can work together? Consider this a trial run… anyway, as I was saying…” Lone sits down and asks, “…got any brewskies here? I work better with a wet whistle.” Baker goes to his ref and pulls out a pair of beers, opens them and hands one to Lone.

After a few sips, Derek continues, “…as I was saying, maybe we can ask a few of my contacts about SHIELD. See what they can come up with – but it will have to be discreet – I don’t want this traced back to us.”

“Yeah…” agrees Tony, “…and we wouldn’t want the wrong hands to get to it either.”

“Okay, I’ll make a few inquiries then return to you soon as I hear something – meantime, you place that vial, and whatever it’s holding into a safe place… you got nay number I can reach you with?” Derek asks.

“Sure…” and Tony picks a pen to scribble his name and number on a Josie’s napkin, then hands it off to Derek, who looks at the note, uses the number to see if Baker’s phone rings, before stuffing it into his coat pocket.

Before Tony can question him, he simple says, “Now you have my number.” He finishes his beer and stands up – ‘Nice seeing you again, Tony. Like I said, I’ll keep in touch… I’ll give my contacts 24 hours, at most, to see how we can arrange an anonymous contact with SHIELD.”

“You know…” adds Baker, maybe we can ask the officers handling the scientist’s case – he might have been contacted by this SHIELD, and maybe we can just give him the vial.”

“Yeah, that’s a good idea.”, agrees Lone. Maybe we can pursue both angles. I’ll let myself out.” And he does.

It wasn’t even thirty minutes after he’d left, that Derek suddenly receives a missed call from Baker, and after trying to call back and getting a busy signal, Lone decides to rush back… as he approaches Tony’s pad, he sees some neighbors looking at the place, and he quickly asks them, “What happened?” A lady roughly in her mid-40s looks at him, and tells him that they heard a lot of noise – like there was a fight, and they even called 911 when they just heard everything stop, and no one was answering their queries.

He doesn’t think twice, aims his insulated shoe at the door and stomps hard – satisfied that it gives in on the second attempt – he and a few other neighbors find the room in a mess – a very different state as to how it was about half an hour earlier.

Derek rushes in to find a slumped Tony, bleeding with a shuriken embedded in his face – his gun in his hand with a few expended bullet shells near him. He orders the other observers to call an ambulance, as he checks for vitals – then he looks around quickly… Baker shot someone, did he hit? Miss? So where were the bullets and the body – heck, where was the other person? There was blood around – but without any analysis, he wouldn’t know it what he saw were Baker’s or his assailant’s.

Door was locked, window pane shattered… but Tony’s room was on the third floor… how did the other person come in? did Tony let him in? Too many questions – ones that have to be set aside for now… at least until Tony got medical attention, which, based on the siren getting louder, would be very soon.

So that’s how they got here… Derek made sure Tony was cared for, but stayed at a distance. He befriended a nurse to get some details – telling her he was a colleague, and that Tony had no family in New York… thankfully, due to his high profile, Tony was afforded emergency medical care… that and Derek having some cash in hand… just in case.

As he sips his coffee, he notices the nurse station missing – not impossible, but he’d wondered why there was a break in routine… after all, even if this floor had several patients, the nurses were not scheduled to check anyone – at least, far as Derek’s observed timetable seemed to suggest.

Derek sees a shadow in Baker’s room, and his instincts kick in. He reaches the door, looks in as sees a crimson-clad figure over Tony’s bed. He shoves the door open, raises his hands – both holding sub-machine guns… with the coffee seemingly disappeared in the process.

“Freeze!” he shouts to the mystery figure, but instead the figure – he can’t really tell if its male or female, crouches and in quick succession, unleashes several shuriken. Lone goes low as the shuriken whiz above, nearly hitting his head, he sees the assailant’s feet and releases suppressed bursts from both guns – taking great care not to hit Tony’s bed.

Instinct kicks in as he sees the assailant fall with hardly a grunt – Lone quickly narrow the gap, but the ninja… and he seems convinced that this is a ninja he’s fighting, pulls out a weapon with chains to hit Lone’s ruining his aim at least. It works with one gun, but Lone still has the other and thinking that this ninja was still too close to Baker, decides to take the ninja down with a few rounds to the chest.

That final act seemed to work, just as the ninja was about to quickly unsheathe his sword and use it on Baker. Derek approaches carefully, making sure the Ninja is no longer a threat, then when he’s satisfied that the ninja has no pulse, he keeps his guns and checks Tony, who seems to be untouched.

While he’s busy checking the vitals of Baker, he feels it and sees it at the corner of his eye – the Ninja, somehow having fooled him, reaches to his leg and grips him tightly… with his hand seemingly vibrating fast – a vibration that quickly transfers to his leg then his whole body… a gun suddenly appears on his hands and he fires point blank at the ninja’s head.

A second later, Lone finds himself falling to the ground, as his motor function skills seem to fail him – and all he can do is look helplessly, as the Ninja’s body seems to start smoking. He tries to call for help, but he can’t even move his mouth – whatever the ninja did to him paralyzed him good.

He starts feeling dizzy, and vaguely hears several feet running to the room, the door opening, and a few surprised shrieks. He feels hands grab him and then he passes out – wondering it this is how it ends.

Light... at first, blurry, then noise - sounding like a doctor giving an autopsy... Derek awakens to a morning window’s brightness and a television’s broadcast – its one of those CSI shows, and he sees Tony on an adjacent bed, in a sitting position, watching with his one good eye… the other still bandaged real good. He tries speaking, but he finds it hard.

Hearing Derek mumble, Tony grabs for something behind his pillow and presses the nurse’s call button. “Nurse, he’s finally awake.” Then turning to Lone, he says, “Welcome back to the land of the living, partner. You gave us quite a scare.”

-end history file 2-

Crossroads... (or losing my passion for comic collection)

2008-08-30T16:45:00.000-07:00

Yes, one might say that I am at a crossroad. But to what or where? Simple, I am contemplating on stopping my comic collection - not just stop buying a title or two, mind you - just plain and simple stop it all. Heck, I just might... just might ditch my collection altogether.

What happened? Why'd I get into this mode? even I don't have all the answers - but I don't know that I have been feeling less enjoyment in reading comics in general... where once I was very passionate about the hobby - to the point that I would go out of my way to have such comics... and not just have it, but to make sure I was one of the people, in this elite group of hobbyists to get it first, to have that pride of being first to read - and maybe explain things to others... man. How can a simple thing as reading and collecting be so competitive?

Ah, but it was... I'm talking (actually reminiscing) about how I was in High School. I shared this passion with others of course... and funny how some of these helped create lasting friendships.

My early years of comics collecting were shared with Raymund Uy, a classmate in primary school. Back then it was simple discussions on what comics we could scrounge upon in our usual neighborhood shops.

Later, there was Maxi Fernandez... a high school classmate of mine, who had the most complete collection of both current and back issues. The current was courtesy of his dad being a pilot in PAL (Philippine Airlines) and thus bringing home a bundle of comics whenever he'd fly to and back from the U.S. Maxi would be an almost constant companion - and classmate. he'd share discussions, art lessons (mostly self-taught... but he did a mean Gil Kane rendition) and later, other teen age experiences.

I would remember hanging at Maxi's place to read his comics, and apparently, I was not he only person doing this, since I would meet others as well through Maxi... I certainly met Ditto, another long-time friend, through him.

Going back to my circle of comic-collecting friends, i would also meet Ricky Pagdanganan by way of seeing him with his loose association of acolytes - younger people (grade school kids) hanging around him, adoring his comics. Apparently, Ricky's dad worked in downtown - close to a magazine stall that had comics... and Ricky refused to divulge where this was. After all, this was his treasure mine, and having more comics coming in at a regular pace was his link to popularity amongst the younger kids.

Between Maxi and Ricky, I found the latter slightly abrasive - and as I said earlier, he was not as sharing as Maxi was, so my friendship with Ricky was rather limited, and it would not be until College that we would really hang out with each other a whole lot more... by then his comics collecting passion would shift to other considerations - hence his possibly seeing me less as a competitor. But these two guys were the main reasons my hobby and passion grew.

I learned a lot from them - and molded myself into a serious database of knowledge for anything Marvel (the company titles we preferred back then). So I guess, I was a more serious collector starting in high school.

College would give us different tracks, and the first to seemingly get less interested was Maxi, having discovered nirvana by way of premarital sex, he started dating and bedding ladies here and there. Sometimes it did not matter where they came from, and he did pay for those flings by way of seeing the doctor for his necessary shots - but then again, those were the days when what you got was curable... and AIDS was still some years into discovery immersion into our global society. Funny, when you reflect that perhaps AIDS was one reason we started becoming aware of just how global we could be.

But with women into the picture, comics got left out of Maxi's life - and I guess, I also started drifting away from being a pal he'd long to hang around with. I would even say that I envied the guy for his seeming skills at bedding young ladies - but I also later realized that the one reason he could do that was die to the fact that he targeted less sophisticated ladies, so he could easily flatter, and maybe trick them into bed. So, off Maxi went - with other circles and interests.

Ricky had a similar interest... but whereas Maxi was seemingly juggling ladies around, Ricky was obsessed with one lady... and continued to be obsessed with her for years. Still, it was not an unhealthy obsession, and I guess only Ricky felt that with perseverance he would eventually win her over. But I would d have ot admire the guy - for I knew his intentions were pure with Sari... but she did not find the spark with him.

Still, it was also at this time that Ricky, and some of his college classmates, started to become my new regular friends... and I guess, we both became friends easier than others due to a shared interest - even if this interest was less Ricky's focus now.

So for me, comics were a constant with friendships gained. Later I had another friend - Ongie, again met through Maxi, and he was part of a well-to-do family. It was later that I found out that his family's business was a night club in downtown... and I guess, at that point in time, this would have been a heaven-sent friendship. I guess for maxi and a few others, it seemed that way. You see, Ongie managed the family business, and that included overseeing (and I say this literally) a lot of ladies in their costumes - in-between performances.

At a few occasions, he'd bring us to his place, until the group became regulars... and why not. We'd be going to bars to ogle girls by then - and right here was a bar owned and managed by someone we knew... like I said, heaven-sent for some. Why was I not totally into this experience? I guess it was because I was struggling with school back then. I was hard to study and live the night life - and I did not even bother trying. Besides, even with a lot of freebies, it was still expensive to maintain such a lifestyle - and still continue buying comics. How about that... comics actually helped be stay a 'good boy' (I can hear some people saying 'what a wuss'; or maybe 'nerd'; or even 'loser' - but hey... that was me, I can't deny that part of history).

Anyway, I found myself reliving stories with Ongie - and Ditto Amador, though not a collector, was an avid reader... and he liked these 'intelligent' discussions. You see, Ditto - later calling himself Deke, would revel in the moment of friendly debate to prove to all - maybe himself most of all, that just because he was a school drop-out, this did not mean he was stupid. On the contrary, Deke was - and is the most well-read person i know, and he is easily a self-trained rules lawyer - able to discern fine prints where others would hardly bother. His dad was a lawyer, so I guess it rubbed off on him in some way.

Now imagine how this debate would happen while we could see ladies walking around heedless of the fact that they were naked... in between costume changes or just taking a down-time between shows and 'tabling' duties. You could say that zoning out to focus on the discussions was a difficult thing for a young man on his 20s. But discuss i did, and I do miss those days for the discussion - and of course the freebies I saw, courtesy of the office one-way mirror.

Oh yeah, and Tony, another regular friend by now, who like Ditto also read Maxi's comics in between school happened to know how to cook real well, so since the office was just beside the kitchen - Tony would come up with real great dishes... and Ongie really loved to eat, so it was a great time had by all. Sometimes I would miss the show, because of our discussions... and I'd wonder if missing said shows were a waste - but I did not see it that way. One happy compromise would be we'd discuss, then stop when show time came up then continue where we left off, after the show. One other interest I had was music, and Ongie had the latest dance mixes delivered to him on a weekly basis... the club actually had more advanced songs played when compared to some discos (as they were called back then).

Ah well... those indeed were the days.

One other highlight about sharing comics experience was when I met Johnny Alegre, musician and another person i met at Maxi's place. But the one really long discussion I had with Johnny was when I brought the maxi-series 'Secret Wars' to Maxi's mom's wake. Johnny was easily an impressionable guy - but he was quite blown away with the concept of the Beyonder; the war between heroes and villains; the in-fighting; Doom's near victory... the maxi-series opens a lot of great discussions, as we helped update him on stuff.

A second such discussion happened when we - that is Johnny, Ditto and I, were guarding ballots in a hotly contested precinct. To pass the time and tension - as we were vigilant for possible hooligans trying to snatch ballot boxes and rigging the votes, we entered into a discussion of the X-men from beginning to the current events... and this was 1986, so you can imagine how long a time-frame we were talking about. Johnny was enthralled, Ditto came in to clarify a few things and confirm some other events, and I wove it all together. I mean, to tap into my stock knowledge as a sort of distraction to lessen the underlying tension back then... comics really heped me find some inner-courage.

All these would not last, of course...

Raymund, we've hardly seen nor talked to each other since College. Different crowd already back then.

Maxi... we hardly talk these days; as I know he's working in a call center - still single, with a girlfriend half his age - and a stewardess at that. So I guess, he's happy with his minimal responsibilities. We do see each other at times, when a mutual friend visits the Philippines... though at times, I don't even see them too as work and family takes precedent for me. We hardly talk about comics; heck we hardly see each other.

Ricky is somehow off the radar these days - maybe he's here, maybe he's out of the country. So I can't say where he is. But I know he started buying again, and later got frustrated with some stories - then stopped. He was very happy when they finally made a movie about his favorite hero - Iron Man... and seemingly got it right - watching it several times with his daughter.

Ongie has been out of touch ever since his family migrated to the U.S. Rumor has it that they had a kind of misunderstanding with some politically connected people and decided that discretion was the better part of valor... hey, back then, they would have been correct. Still, when he'd visit, he'd drop in unannounced in my old apartment... but I left my old place to transfer with my family (wife and newborn son back then), so even if he tried looking for me, I doubt he'd succeed. So I know not if he's here or in S.F. and my son is now 13, so you can see how long its been.

Deke, by the way, introduced me to a different hobby - role playing games, with people who played the Marvel RPG - but this was during the times when we had a whole lot more time and a whole lot less responsibilities. He's now in Canada; been there for at least two year now, and hopefully living better - I don't think there are immediate plans to visit for a vacation. he emails once in a while - though these are mostly game-related.

So I only have online forums to share my comic buying and reading experiences - a fer cry from face-to-face communications, but still a way of meeting new 'virtual' friends. But is this enough? Yes it has been enough. But what is different now? If its not the lack of friends to hare the hobby with - what is it?

Well I won't totally rule out the lack of friends entirely. After all, discussing comics with them help me reminisce and further strengthen the need to continue buying and sharing. but costs have gone up - inflation is hitting us, and comics are, after all a luxury item from where I'm sitting.

So stop... yeah, guess its time. But maybe... just maybe I'll start slow - trim down, limit myself to a title or two... okay, maybe four per month. Get rid of my collection... I'm still thinking about that. Maybe lessen them - give or sell some. Who knows? I've asked Alan Bengzon to help me sell them. He said he'll ask a friend to sell it for me. Until said friend contacts me, I can still decide what to keep and get rid of.

But to continue collecting? Maybe not now... after all, the passion to collect seems gone. I can hold off reading or buying comics for enve until a month... and I can start feeling regret with my expenditures. So yeah... definitely, time to quit... or at the very least, slow down.

Top 100 trade comic collections

2008-07-24T06:47:00.000-07:00

You can see from the sidebar of this blog that I've given some recommendations of what comic stories to read, and I did this on the basis of promoting good stories to read by anyone who - not having experienced reading comics and wondering what all the hype is about, might be considering what to read, so they could gain an understanding of why I am passionate about reading these.

Well, apparently, I'm not the only one who thought of this - in fact, I could say that there are two sites on the web that anyone with an interest in knowing what are the most popular stories around, could look at and maybe learn a little more about these issues they may want to try.

Talk about being more extensive, these lists reach up to 100 selections, and is based on fan polls (as opposed to my ever simple list which represents my personal choice. Ah well... just to let you know, here are the two sites to visit:

http://www.listsofbests.com/list/6867
This is actually a list by Wizard Magazine, so expect the poll to cover a great many fans' choices.

http://www.comicsketchgallery.com/wiki/tiki-index.php?page=Top+100+Trades
This list, though possibly not as far reaching as the Wizard poll coverage, was done by way of podcasting by the listeners comicgeekspeak.com.

Again, the reason for this is to let newbies know what many fans think are MUST READ items. Stories worthy of uplifting the image and standards of visual storytelling through the comic book (or graphic novel) medium.

Look it through... then do yourself a favor. If you see a trade you've yet to read, try it out. Who knows, maybe you'll start liking what you read, and continue on.

2008-07-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

Captain America
“Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot…”
Part seven.

Midnight… the cool open air that is felt at Hyde Park is something Bucky relishes as he waits at the Holocaust memorial. At this particular time, the place is almost covered by darkness, with exception to a nearby building’s lights – and even that, is only lighted at a minimum, presumably, for the purpose of its night watchman s he need not stumble in total darkness. He’s observed said watchman doing his rounds, and noticed that there was not even a cursory show of curiosity towards his direction – good, he won’t be disturbed.

He then reflects on how he was wondering about meeting her… even thought of the possibility that she would not be willing to talk to him, seeing as she might be blaming him for being part of that Sleeper fiasco that happened here those many months ago; how said Sleeper, sent by the Skull, nearly tore up half of London’s eastern side.

He eventually did stop the Sleeper, with Steve’s help… using hindsight, Bucky had to admit that even in those short moments, it felt right – to be working side-by-side again with Steve. Guess he could chalk that up to what is referred to as muscle memory, and it was nice to know that despite all his slumber periods in between Winter Soldier assignments, his body still knew how to instinctively work in tandem with Steve – Captain America, back then. But would she have known that? Would Steve have told her about it? Why was it important to meet her, and get on her good side?

For starters… aside from Namor, she may be the only other living person he has known way back from the war. The fact that she was alive, was, in itself, miraculous… the fact that she was still young, doubly so – and the manner by which she got that way… a second transfusion from Jim, the Human Torch, was something one would only imagine reading in fiction books. He recalls the Submariner’s words about her…

“She’s still got her spunk, lad…” cited Namor while enjoying the sunset at a lakeside quay by a quaint inn that he had recently purchased, never mind that this was near Latverian borders, “…and the short time that I shared with her, Jim and the new Union Jack, as part of the revived but short-lived Invaders was exhilarating, to say the least.”

Bucky looked at Namor then, and asked him “So, you think I should visit her?”

Namor looks at him, then responds, “Life is short, James, and fleeting... even for such as us. I’ve seen too many friends and relations pass away, and Steve was just the latest. He certainly will not be the last. I’d say that Jacqueline feels the same way. Besides, it’s not as if she’ll bite your head off… Once an Invader, always an Invader… and I can tell you right now, she felt that the old team – the one with you and Steve, got it right, Not so this newer version. Give her a call – or better yet, pay her a visit.”

Looking bemused, Bucky replies - “So… not only have you become a corporate raider, as you call yourself… you also seem to be showing signs of being more sentimental.” Namor’s raised eyebrow and rejoinder then seemed priceless.

>snap< ‘The noise, even if just soft is enough to pull him form his thoughts… he’s got company. He concentrates, becomes fully focused with his surroundings – eyes having been adjusted to the darkness a long time ago, he can see relatively clearly in the dark, and is suddenly aware of several figures nearing him. He slowly moves his arm into his trench coat, clasping his shield’s side… ready to hurtle it at a moment’s notice.

“I’ wouldn’t be doing that if I were you, mate” a somewhat gruff voice says – male by the sounds of it, and about 6 o’clock from where he’s looking – behind him… possibly five meters away, just beyond the tree covering. He mentally places the person’s distance and location, while observing what ‘his’ companions are planning – a flanking movement, possibly a pincer attack.

“Whatever weapon you’ve got under the coat, I suggest you just lay it down slowly” This time, from the person to his left – male as well, equally serious sounding – but lacking the aged timbre of the first person, which means this one is younger than the first. Through the moonlight, Bucky notices a hint of dark blue with some red by this man’s shoulder… a familiar pattern, far as he is concerned.

“I’m not here to make trouble…” Bucky explains, as he raises his hands slightly to his side, to show that he is not holding any weapon. He thinks he knows who these are, but can he be sure? After all, there have been Skrulls here too.

“A curious statement coming from a mysterious person, dressed suspiciously in the dark, while inside a closed park” This time, a female… and somewhat familiar sounding. He decides to test his theory and recites a long time code… one that they had used in the Invaders.

“Bloody ‘ell… now where’ve I ‘eard that before?” The male… Unionjack, Bucky’s certain of it now. His stance betrays a bit of hesitancy.

“Its all gobbledygook lad, meant to distract you… eyes alert! He’s getting ready to do somethin” Again, this coming from the one behind him; possibly the leader – or the elder of the bunch? But he finally hears the voice of Jacqueline say “No… wait! It’s not nonsense… its code - one that I’ve not heard from anyone in a long time. You… “ she addresses Bucky “…step out to the light where we can see you. Explain how you know this – and why you use it now.”

Bucky moves slowly, non-threateningly, into the light, and simply says “Hello, Lady Falsworth… long time no see. The years have been kind, it seems.” She sees the uniform under the coat – and eyes widen a bit, she then stares at the face… something familiar seems there – though she can’t place it. “James? Bucky, is… is that you?” is all she says.

“Easy luv… it might be a trick. He might ave picked it up somewhere, an he might be another one of those green skins”, this warning coming from Unionjack.

“No trick, Mr. Chapman… its Joey Chapman, right? I’m not a Skrull, though I did, just recently, dispose of one that tried copying me.” saying this while looking at the female – seeing if he can convince her to vouch for him. “As for my knowing about the code, I was there when your dad, Lord Falsworth, decided on it as the code to use between us, back at the ‘War Room’.” Then he sees it… a connection, disbelief… shock and surprise all at a split second, and before he knows it, she disappears in a blur, feels the wind briefly surround him, - a quick tug, and just as suddenly reappears a few yards from him – holding his coat… exposing him for who he is.

“Boys…”, she announces, “we’ve got us here a celebrity... and a long lost friend of mine. Do say hullo to Captain ‘bloody’ America a.k.a. James Buchanan Barnes… he used to go by the name o Bucky. Now… he’s taken on the role of a recently departed friend.

So, James, you’re the new Captain America, it seems”… again, a blur, but this time, she’s hugging him, and asking him a lot of questions. She’s so engrossed with talking to him, she forgets to introduce her companions.

Said companions slowly approach, and Bucky’s glad to see Unionjack returning his gun to its holster… though still eyeing him steadily. The third man looks vaguely familiar… though he’s obviously much older than the two – looking like a World War II veteran. Yet his stance betrays strength and confidence, and Bucky automatically knows that this man may be Britain’s counterpart to Steve.

Bucky also sees that this man – likewise, has a rounded shield, though sporting a traditional seal of Great Britain’s Lion. He searches for a name and finally it hits him… “Captain Midland, I presume?” Without realizing it, Bucky is saluting.

“Very observant lad… and is Spitfire here right? Am I to understand that you were the original partner to the man who’s colors you now wear?”

“Yes sir.” And Bucky feels the measured stare of the veteran on him, but he gives this veteran an obvious sign of respect. After all, how many people still alive were privy to having been given the Super Soldier serum?

Unlike Steve, though, this man did not accidentally go into a frozen state to preserve his life… and he can just imagine how he’d look himself, if his life had not been put on hold by the Winter Soldier program.

“Hrrmph… the uniform does not make the man. Do well to remember that!”, and having said just that, Captain Midland strides away – disinterested, and somehow, Bucky feels that he’s just been dismissed.

“Don’t mind the old codger, he’s just disappointed that he didn’t get to bash your head for the glory of the Empire...” This statement coming form Jacqueline Falsworth Chriton, “but lets get to more pleasant surroundings before we continue this. This park may be lovely at night – but its no replacement for the comforts of home. I’ll fix a pot , and we can compare notes.”

Unionjack walks quietly beside Captain Midland, who then grumbles something about how this upstart seems to be getting the royal treatment. “What heroic feat has he done, lad, that allows him to blow his trumpet?”, this mentioned as the Captain turns to look at Unionjack

“He saved this city from a Sleeper of the Red Skull, old man… you do remember reading about that – it was in the briefings with Wisdom, two months ago… so you might want to cutour guest some slack... and prior to that, he was an Invader –one of the originals... that makes him just like you… a war vet. Surely you’d respect that, don’t you?”

Taken aback by U.J.’s revelation and defense of Bucky, Captain Midland looks at the receding form of Captain America, still arm-locked with Spitfire, in the distance. “He did… did he? I knew about the Invaders exploits – but I figured he was just taking the easy jobs – still, you are correct, war was a time for men to prove their worht, and Mr. Barnes did do that. ..well then, he’s gone up two notches, then, in my estimation… but he’s still got a lot o catchin up to do with the original”

“That he does, old man… and I can tell you, it won’t be easy. I know a little about havin to prove one’s self to the tradition of the uniform.”, and Unionjack stops right there - keeping the rest of his thoughts to himself ‘…and I’m just glad the cap fits just fine with me, cause I wouldn’t know how to live up to Steve Rogers’ Captain America’. Unionjack looks one last time to Captain Midland, and simply ends his last statement with… “That he does, and I don envy im.”

As Spitfire and Bucky, who is once again wearing the coat, walk out the park’s grounds, they hear someone approaching them, challenging their presence in the park. “Here, you two… what were you doin in the park at this time?” Bucky sees the challenging coper approaching them, holding his radio in case he would be needing back up.

Before he can catch up with them though, Unionjack, steps through the same location, interposing himself between the officer and Jacqueline with Bucky, making the coper stops dead on his tracks.

“Dear heavens… Unionjack, sir, Constable Sullivan at your service. Sorry to be distrubin you. I thought that your companions were pranksters.” Unionjack simply clasps the officer’s shoulder and tells him, “Quite all right constable, we were just takin the midnight air – needin some privacy with a friend.” And as they both look towards Jackie and Bucky, the officer now sees just who he was about to accost. Spitfire and a now masked Captain America. The constable’s eyes widen in disbelief with who he sees.

“Beggin your pardon sir, I did not recognize you from afar, there’ve been some vandals galavantin around the park, recent like, and I though you might have been them I happen to spot leaving the park.”

“It’s alright, officer. No harm done. Have a good night now.” Captain America remarks, and startst to walk away. But he then hears the officer again. “Captain… beggin your pardon again sir, but there is something I would like to share… more like a request, actually, if you do not mind, that is.”

Seeing Captain America turn to him, the officer becomes emboldened to continue. “Its my old man, sir… he’s sick, and may not last too long, I dare say, and I was wonderin if you could pay him a visit.”

Spotting the slight look of confusion in Captain America’s face, he continue… “See, when I was but a young lad, my da would tell me tales o how, during his younger days, he was almost killed in the war… and how he got saved by the… well, by you and the Invaders.

As he says, it happened some time during the bombing raids; how he was helping to get people into the shelters and he saw an old lady havin some difficulty gettin to the shelter, so my da… he picks her up, just as the bombs start dropping around them.”

“They had not reached the shelter before it closed, so he had to think of something else to do. He was nearly out of his wits, and thought it was his time, but he had to protect the old lady. As things looked to turn for the worse, he felt a hand reach out for him and he sees this young man, younger than him – maybe more likely a teenager. Anyway, this teen was yelling for him to move on, and my da, he was about to point to the old woman, when he sees her get lifted, then he sees Captain America run carrying her, and run across London, they seeemd to have done, brining her to safety, while me da and the young man run behind him.”

“Then, ill luck, I suppose, happens – me dad falls and bends a foot, and this young man does not hesitate to stop, run back and pick him up and half carries him to safety. End of story. Well… not quite, really – see me da mentions that he never had the chance to thank the young man, who he later learned happens to be Captain America’s partner, Bucky. He was hopin to get a chance to thank Bucky someday, but by the time he got out of the medic’s tent, he learned that the Invaders had just up and left before he could do so.”

“The point I was trying to get around to saying with my story is that me da… well, he felt that he was cheated of thanking the one man that helped him – so, maybe, if he can’t thank Bucky, maybe he can thank you instead. I’m sure he’d like that too – you see, the old lady you carried happened to be his future mother-in-law, my grand mum. So you could say that I’m here because o you two.” Constable Sullivan then pauses… looking at Captain America who was just staring at him the whole time.

Spitfire is quiet and Unionjack is likewise uncharacteristically silent, Captain America finally speaks. “I remember that night.” This brings a surprised look from the constable, who probably half thought that his father had told him a tall tale of sorts, but to get confirmation from Captain America…

“Officer… Constable Sullivan … is your father’s name, Arthur Sullivan?”

“Yes sir, yes it is…!” Constable Sullivan can hardly believe that after all those years, Captain America remembers his father. “So it was true?”

Yes it was, constable, and you should be proud of your father’s selfless courage – but then again I see it runs in the family.” Looking at Jackie, he says “Looks like tea will have to wait.” And Spitfire simply nods. “I’ll gladly talk to your father, Officer Sullivan – that is, if you can take me to him now.”

Captain America turns to his companions, and Spitfire is beaming as she simply puts her hand on his arm and says “You know, Captain, we Brits prize our tea time, and we are a traditional lot - we always... always make it a point to honor the crown’s heroes… right boys?”

“Indeed… Captain,” this coming from Captain Midland, whose gruff exterior seemed to have been changed by the constable’s story, as he continues… “ I would like to ask the constable’s permission… as I would like to come along – if that’s alright with everyone, of course. We vets rarely get to rub elbows with each other these days.”

“We’ll all go!” announces Spitfire. “We were planning a reunion, anyway, what’s one more War hero?”, she turns to the constable, and “I hope your father won’t mind a late visit by us all, constable… and do be a darling, lead the way.”

End... for now.

Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot - part six

2008-06-13T22:50:00.000-07:00

Captain America
“Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot…”
Part six.

He’s been reviewing the events for the past half hour, assessing every minute detail, considering if anything was out of the ordinary. Unfortunately, Natasha also felt his distance – after her debriefing with Stark (at least, that is what she said), she seemed frustrated… needed to open up – but at the same time, she could not. After all, not everything was declassified – and Bucky… no matter the fact that he was now the new Captain America, had no security clearance for her to open up to. So could this frustration be a sign of ‘out of the ordinary’ situations happening? It could be that... something was certainly up - and this Captain America could sense it.

He tried reminiscing about his 'memories' of her – making an excuse that he still had blind spots with his long term memories – especially as the Winter Soldier, which was not far form the truth. He was testing her… seeing if she really knew him.

She was seeking comfort – a reason to forget what her day was like… and he was trying to do subtle interrogation… by way of seduction – an art made more challenging, by the way, considering that the Black Widow's dosier would specify that she was a known master of such techniques.

He could remember how she just stood up, facing the window, and asked him bluntly… “Why are you doing this James? Why are you pushing me away, while you ask all these questions about our past? If I did not know any better, I’d swear that you were interrogating me… are you?” The last statement said, as she turns to face him.

What could he say? He knew she would sense the truth, but at the same time, he was trying to see if she was aware of what was happening, that Skrulls were abound. No easy way around this one… so he decided to go for truth. “You’re right ‘tasha’, I am interrogating you…”, he registers the look of surprise – then hurt, as she weighs his words, and sees his him casually raise his gun at her, “I’ve been told not to trust anyone… and that includes you, so answer my questions, or…”

“Or what?!... you’ll kill me?!” Outrage – a promising sign, after all, he can always try asking her forgiveness later. He stares evenly at her… and simply answers… “Yes.” Surprisingly, she takes this in stride – but her tone tells him otherwise. “Very well, comrade…” she states, formally… distantly. “What would you like to know?” The only indicator of what she really felt, evidenced by the moistness of her eyes.

20 minutes later, she’s answered all his queries – and She is still staring at him, but with a look very distant to her earlier caring visage when she entered the room. Seeing that he has not asked her anything for the past minute, she finally breaks the silence. “Are we done? Does my debriefing satisfy you?”

“Tasha… I…”

“No!” She literally moved so fast, launching herself across the room – and slaps him on the face… a move that is both unexpected – yet not surprising. He saw it coming, but did nothing to prevent it.

“Don’t you dare call me that way!” This statement, almost screaming… “I reserve that privilege for people I am close to – and last I heard, that presupposes trust between me and that person whom I allow to call me that way.”

From accusatory, she composes herself and projects an aura of ‘cool and calculating’ the Widow’s professional face. “Apparently comrade Captain, I do not belong in your circle of trust – so I am simply reciprocating.” She turns away, before he could say anything. “Goodbye Captain… and good luck” She closes the door and leaves him feeling slgihtly overwhelmed by what just happened.

He then dons the mask and leaves through the window.

“Widow!... Wait!” He exclaims, having caught up with her pace after a few blocks, and as he sees her turn, she moves all the more faster – this time, using the crowds and rooftops – she obviously will not make this easy. He finally catches her; grabbing her wrist. “Natasha! I said wait!”

She counters and he finds himself flying towards a wall, his momentum being used against him – such surprising strenght for one so lean - then again, she has been a spy for a long time, and a hero - so that lean frame has to be all muscles - he thinks as he back flips, making sure his feet hit the wall. He pivots back to summersault and land beside her. Despite herself, she seems slightly impressed.

“The time for talk is ended, James, I do not appreciate being given the cold shoulder – more so by you! If you cannot trust me enough to share your intent, you need not bother talking to me. I’m sure Tony Stark has given you the same marching orders he gave me. I understand that.”

He does not miss a beat. He approaches her and agrees – “Yes, I have Natasha… I’m sorry. Can you forgive me?”

Her face softens for a moment…

Then she tosses a small device to him, and it attaches to his chest – he looks dumbfounded at it, before a hundred kilovolts course through his body – and he falls. Drifting into unconsciousness, he sees her slowly approaching him. Looking clinical.

He awakes, tied up – back in the apartment. She’s there… with another man. He looks Russian, with reddish brown hair and a moustache. He collects himself and struggles – as the Widow leans closer. “What is your mission here?”

Captain America glares at her, and keeps quiet. “Suddenly silent? Don’t be, I know you – and I know you are not working alone. Tell me now, and I can spare you.”

“You sicken me Natasha! How could you turn against the Earth and the human race?”

“Even now, you play the role quite well… convincing at that. But you see, your plan had one little flaw – possibly due to failed intel on your part.” She looks at him – this time, with deadly intent, “Whoever you are, you are not Bucky Barnes… and make no mistake – you declared war with us – so you had better not think that I will go follow rules of conduct based on the Geneva accord… which by the way covers the ‘Human Race’ only, last I read.”

A moment’s pause, then the shape of Bucky Barnes/Captain America shifts, while taking on a more fluid form and, in the process, loosening his bonds. “Look out!” the Widow’s companion shouts, and he picks up the shield he's been hiding at his back – tossing it cleanly at the Skrull’s neck – hitting the larynx (or what may pass like one) – as the Skrull’s escape is aborted, the Widow’s companion releases a taser, and uses it on said revealed Skrull.

He whispers to the Skrull in Russian “Nothing personal, but I do not like people stealing my name and face, comrade...” He then 'removes' his face - a mask! thinks the quite groggy Skrull, and reveals his true visage… as Bucky Barnes – “…and, as you can see, you’re not the only ones who can borrow faces.” The last half of said statement said in English. The Skrull falls into darkness, wondering whrn his cover was blown.

“He is unconscious James, or at least he seems to be.”

“Yeah, that he is – or she is… we can’t really tell with these body-snatchers, can we?”

“Does it matter? He is an enemy – and now a prisoner of war. Will you do the honors of interrogating him, James? Or shall I?”

“I’m thinking, maybe we should turn him over to Stark and S.H.I.E.L.D. – of course, we could delay that a bit.., until we get to learn more of their plans.”

“As you wish…”

“I do… ‘talia’ – lucky for us, he didn’t really know what I call you, huh?”

“No… whoever he got his intel from, it is obvious that he thinks I go by the name of Natasha – and most everyone calls me that… except you, of course, James.” “By the way, James… how did you know to trust me?”

“Simple Talia, by taking on the guize of an old friend of yours, and looking for some reaction on your part. Surprise was definitely a reaction I was looking for when I used Ivan’s face when I approached you.”

“You realize that I could have killed you for that… Ivan, after all, has not been a part of my life for a long time… but he was very dear to me - an uncle if you will, as it is, I miss him again.”

“Yes I did recall how he hovered around you all the time… and I was somehow banking of that recognition as well. I gambled that should they try to take you, it would be with more recent... acquaintances... like me.”

As he stands to pick up the unconscious Skrull, he hears the Black Widow sweetly ask...

“Wait James, before we go – what did Ivan use to call me?” He notices the slight tension in her voice. And responds coolly - “I believe it was Princess – Princess Natalia.” Bucky says in a rather half-joking manner, then, adds.... "You testing me now ‘talia?"

She simply smiles… and that’s all he needs see... the smile of a princess.

Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot - part five

2008-05-17T00:05:00.000-07:00

Note: to better appreciate the goings-on at this story's background, I would suggest reading Secret invasion or the Mighty Avengers and New Avengers issues connected to Secret Invasion.

Captain America
“Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot…”
Part five.
Manhattan – a new day, and the television is signing on with the national anthem. Like every morning, it presents promises of becoming a good day – if luck would have it, a carefree day even. Not so for Bucky Barnes, as he stares pensively at the man across him on the dining table – a man, he has, on occasion asked for help – and helped.

“So let me get this straight…” he finally says – this after a moment of silently absorbing everything that Nick had just presented to him. “I’m to look if Natalia suddenly acts different?... off, as you’d say? And if I’ve probably cause for concern, I kill her, no questions asked?” If there is any concern in his heart, Bucky’s voice does not show it.

“Yes”, a short and sweet response – coming from a face used to giving difficult orders. Bucky notices no hesitation, and thinks to himself that ‘This is serious’. He quietly accepts this reply, then… looking Nick Fury in the eye; he finally asks the one other question that’s been bugging him… “What made you think I’m not one of them?”

“The truth?”

“Yeah, Nick… the truth.”

“Alright, guess that’s a fair thing ta ask me after what I’ve just laid down on ya.”

Nick Fury leans forward, and the sun’s morning rays touch on his profile, very briefly - but long enough for Bucky to notice that fatigue has slowly been creeping into Fury – whatever this is, its taken… is taking a great toll on this man.

“I didn’t risk trustin you kid… I’ve been watchin you – keeping track of yer activities these past few days until I thought you were the real deal.”

“Hnh,” Bucky states… “That explains the feeling I’ve had at times about my being watched – but I thought it was someone Stark might have had placed.”

Bucky remembers having at least three instances when he felt he was being watched. The most recent one was just an hour ago, as he was winding down from a night of patrolling with both the Patriot and Hawkeye – Kate Bishop, not Clint Barton. His thoughts briefly return to last night.

The two teens looked excited – alive, as they were patrolling - and he could empathize with their feeling, since he felt the same as the young Bucky Barnes – partner to the super soldier that was Captain America.

Their youth, their idealism and their excitement - truth be told, he liked having them around, in a controlled environment at least, for they helped him connect to his old self – a self he needed to rediscover, and in doing so, perhaps find the ideals he believed in before.

Walking back to the training room, shield in hand, Bucky was about to place it on its resting place, when he felt something – like he’s being watched. Moving with practiced fluidity, Bucky throws the shield and it ricochets into two walls before bouncing off something softer. He is rewarded with a soft grunt, and Bucky sees a materializing Fury on the far end of the room where the shield stopped. He’s on the floor, rubbing his side and says without any preamble – “Was wondrin if you could really handle the shield, guess this answers my unasked question, huh?”

Bucky’s thoughts returns to the present as he hears Fury talk again.

“Nope, not Stark; nice instincts by the way, back there – but, yeah, there were a few hostiles – some I’ve convinced to stop observin you, and it did necessitate this meetin.”

Fury’s last remark gets a slight eye-brow raise as a reaction from Bucky, and he at least feels satisfied that his last statement got a reaction – even a seemingly small one.

“See, you were under their radar – after all, you were supposed to be dead and they didn’t expect ya to be around. I was kinda bankin on that to continue, until ya did something stupid like appearin on national TV durin those riots a few weeks back.” He shifts his stance to lean forward – a way of emphasizing what he was about to say. “Now, we’ll have to assume they know you’re here, and will make adjustments – especially since yer wearin the suit that counts.”

Fury points to the discarded upper uniform of Captain America, not out of necessity, but for emphasis. “That tells em yer important in some way… and they’re reevaluating your presence. I sure as hell would.”

Again silence… as these two look across the table at each other – one weighing everything that’s been told him – the other, hoping that his urgency has come across.

It is Bucky that once again breaks the silence. “Ok, I’m in. Aside from what you’ve just told me, how else can I help?”

Fury gives a slight smile, then continues…

“Fer now? by stayin careful, stayin alive… and trustin no one completely. Oh yeah… and keep yer eye on the kids – one of ‘em’s liable to be important real soon. If my instincts are right, their team’s been infiltrated too, here’s who I think is the spy in their midst.” He presses a small button from a disk and a 3-D image of Stature comes to view.

Bucky looks at her image and says “So what can I expect – who is she supposed to be spying on? For what purpose?”

Fury presses another button and a separate image appears – this one of the Hulkling. “Steve, during his Avenger days, made reports about how the Skrulls were after this kid. Apparently, he’s got royalty in his veins; which means he’s a target. I mean, why hide a bodyguard…”

Bucky realizes where this is leading to and finishes the sentence “… unless the role is not to be a bodyguard, but an assassin.” Bucky stands up, looks beyond the window and mentions “Is this why you got me into this particular role? Because of my recent past? Damn it, Nick…!” visibly irritated, “I’m trying to forget my past as an assassin and you serve it back to me!”

Nick raises his voice too “Now hold it right there, junior…! First of all, I did not say anythin about assassinatin anyone. Your role is purely to observe and prevent an assassination – its counter-assassination, and like it or not, your old hobby puts you in a position to do the job better than anyone I know.”

With that, Fury stands up and turns to leave…

“I’m done here – told ya what ya need ta know. I’ve got other things ta do too. This damn invasion can strike any time. If ya don’t want the job, I’ll just look fer someone else ta do it.”

Bucky looks at Nick and answers “Okay, so I was jumpy a bit. I’ll do it. I’ll keep an eye out for the kids - shouldn’t be too hard, I’ve already got Eli and Kate doing patrols with me – any of them Skrulls?”

Fury looks to him and answers “As of last night? Nope.”

“That’s pretty reassuring.”

No one said it was easy, kid.”

With that he presses another hidden switch on his person, and then says a parting shot – “Oh, and if were you, I’d get the security of this place beefed up. First, Barton… then Wilson…? Ya might as well tear down yer walls and place neon welcome signs.”

“I was about to do just that…” Bucky interjects.

“By the way, suit fits ya. Say what ya will about Stark – but his instincts ta give ya the identity were dead on. I’ve called in a few favors, so you can expect some special ammunition via my usual shipping routes.

Fury starts to disappear, going the way he came… “I’ll call ya usin the same method in Paris – if this invasion pushes through, we’ll be needin everyone we can gat a hold of. Should I contact you in a different manner, automatically trust that it ain’t me.” And as his face disappears, “Good luck to us both kid.”

“Yeah, Nick… good luck to us both” he states – but honestly wonders if Fury’s still around to hear him.

Bucky looks to the morning… thinking through what he’s just learned, and is pondering his next move. He’d kept out of the recent civil war between heroes – this one though, looks most likely to engulf him.

It is at this point that he hears his communicator beep…

Its Natalia… or is it?

Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot - part four

2008-05-17T00:03:00.000-07:00

Captain America
“Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot…”
Part four.

“Tony, what is it? Is there a problem?”

Across the screen, Tony Stark looks at her – studying her, and Natasha Romanov feels that he is trying to literally look inside her – then he talks. “Just being careful ‘Tasha, something’s happened and we need to confirm everyone’s identity before we fully trust who they say they are.”

Showing signs of both impatience and frustration at Stark’s rather cryptic remarks, she jumps into her routine coded identity confirmation protocol emphasizing her last set of numbers to emphasize her displeasure, after all, for a while there, she felt thrown back into the early days when she had first decided to defect to the ‘enemy’ back then – when she decided to leave her country’s secret service. Then she adds “…plus, I’ve got ‘Patriot Two’ with me.

Tony’s face relaxes a bit, and transmits a friendly-recognition to the pair of F-18s, who then veer away from their ‘escort’ formation of the S.H.I.E.L.D. transport that she is piloting. “Sorry about that Tasha, things haven’t been easy for us these past few days.” The Black Widow’s training kicks in and recognizes a mixture of truth and stonewalling of further truths – apparently, the same goes for her guest.

“What’s the situation Stark?”, Tony looks startled for a second, looking to her left, Natasha confirms what made the director of S.H.I.E.L.D. pause, even for just a while. Bucky has indeed donned his mask, and is showing a very ‘all-serious – all-business’ look, Tony, it seems, has yet to get used to seeing Captain America again, even if this one is a Captain America he helped make.

“Nothing that needs your attention, Captain.” – matching Bucky’s formality. “If we need your help, we’ll let you know.” Without pausing, he continues to address Natasha, “Widow… how soon can you report to me for debriefing?” Somehow knowing this was about to be his line of thought, she does not hesitate with her answer. “20 minutes, Director Stark”, she replies, equally formal. “Alright, Stark out” is all the reply she gets, obviously the conversation is ended, as the screen goes blank.

“Charming as usual, isn’t he?” Bucky remarks as he sits at the co-pilot seat. “He’s worried about something… James, I have to go. It may be S.H.I.E.L.D. or even Avengers business.” He looks at the woman in front of him – the planned quiet evening, thrown out the window – James Buchanan Barnes says the only thing he can. “Of course… I’ll take the scenic route home.”, and stands up to commandeer a jet pack found near the parachutes.

“I shall not be too long…” she opines, but they both know this to be a false statement – briefings have the tendency to take longer than they should, so she can’t really guarantee this as fact. Still, she deemed it worth saying… “Take all the time you need, Natalia, you know where to find me.” He leans closer with the intent to kiss, and she reciprocates. A few moments pass, “How about playing hooky with Stark?” he teases, “Mmmm… not only will I lose the respect of a friend, but possibly be charged with insubordination, tempting… but, no. I cannot let anyone think I’m getting careless and unprofessional”, and pulls back, but offering him a glint of a mischievous smile.

“Had to try,… so, what will it be this time?” he asks. When she looks quizzically, he clarifies – “I’ve got some Merlot, Sauvignon or… Stolich” Smiling, she purrs “Mr. Barnes, are you trying to get me drunk?” He moves closer to the exit door as he states, “The thought had occurred to me – but I also remembered a rumor about the Black Widow those years back.”

“Oh?... which one?”

“Some soldiers in Leningrad were talking to each other, one swears to you’re ability to out-last most men in a drinking match. –as you showed their General”

“Exaggerations… but I did not stop such propagation, since these helped build a… legend to the name.”

He smiles, “Take care Talia”, then departs though the double-pressure doors. She glances at his radar ‘blip’ for a few moments, before redirecting her flight to the rendezvous with Director Stark., all the while, shaking her head, “Natalia…” admonishing herself, “...what are you getting yourself into, again?”, she glances at the radar, and smiles at some long forgotten – but recently recalled memory.

New York, lower East-side: 11 PM

On a particular rooftop, two teens can be mistaken for either showing an interest in astronomy, or maybe even making out in an obviously starry night – these two, however, are not those type of teens – not that they’re not normal, but a closer look would see them just standing, backpacks on the side - observing the surrounding areas. Night goggles on hand.

“He’s sooo late. You sure he said to meet him in this place, at this time?” says Kate Bishop. I mean, why not just go to his place?

“Yes he did, Kate. As for why not his place, maybe you can ask him when he arrives.” Though even as he says this, Eli feels less conviction than what he’s outwardly showing his team mate. He had not known Bucky , or the Winter Soldier, or whatever he calls himself these days, long enough to honestly trust his word – though he did say that calling him Bucky was fine, the truth is Eli always felt some form of… what? admiration? kinship? Kate once commented that he turned tongue-tied whenever he was near Cap, well… Bucky apparently gave him the same effect – though perhaps, to a lesser degree.

His thoughts drift and wonders if maybe it was a mistake to take Kate along – after all, she does dish out what she thinks faster than – well, sometimes, her need to think about some sensitivities, he feels that Bucky probably did not mind her inquisitive stance before – so, he felt, it would have been okay to bring her along again.

More likely, once she sees him with a not-too-confident stance in front of Bucky, he’ll surely not live it down with her for maybe a year – or more. Heck, if he was lucky, maybe Bucky will be too busy to remember their agreed time and they can just go home. This is what his thoughts process, as he scans the rooftops one more time. He is surprised, to say the least, to hear a soft – but equally confident voice almost beside him.

“Eli…”

He freezes. Then thinks, ‘Damn, mustn’t let Kate see me like this.’ He musters enough will power to make a passable turn - until his voice starts coming out with a slight pitch.
“Hey Bucky,”, ‘agh…stupid Eli’ he thinks as soon as the words leave his mouth, but he continues “…thought you’d forgotten our meeting, we were worried that you…” – then he really sees him, as Bucky step out of the shadows “…wouldn’t…show…up.”

Against the moonlight, he sees it – but it takes a moment to fully register what his eyes are seeing. A quick look at Kate and he feels better knowing that she apparently is as dumbstruck as he is. ‘Wow… Kate dumbstruck, wait ‘til I tell the others’ he thinks momentarily.

He takes in the details - the disk-shaped shield, slung on his left arm, a hint of small wings on the head, and the tell-tale star on the chest… the colors are darker - it may be shaded by the darkness, but there are tell-tale differences to the design… but it can’t be mistaken as Captain America’s uniform.

“You’re…?”

“Yup… I am.” Is his simple response, then Captain America / Bucky turns to Kate.

“Hi Kate, it is Kate, right? I remember you in uniform, as Hawkeye. You were good with the bow in that AIM warehouse” then he offers his hand, and Kate, having recovered, shakes his hand.

“Mr. Barnes?” sounding a bit more formal than she normally does, but still comes across as cool – a manner that Eli wishes he felt right now, “…what you’re wearing, does this mean you’re now taking over as Captain America?”

“Yes I will Kate.”

“Wow…, that’s cool! I mean, we miss Cap… and could really use his presence these days – we all could. But aren’t you afraid you’ll fall short?”

”Kate! Damn…” “Sorry…”

Smiling, Captain America replies – “You do ask the hard questions Kate. But to answer you – It’s a proud legacy, and I’m afraid I might not do enough to meet its standards. But that doesn’t mean I won’t try.”

“Bucky, when did this happen?” blurts out Eli, the latter part of the query a bit more forceful than intended. “I became Captain America a few days after we last met in my apartment – sorry I hadn’t been able to tell you about it, Eli. I have been busy adjusting to the role.” “As for how I got this, well, lets just say I’m fulfilling an old friend’s wish.”

“But didn’t Tony Stark have the shield and all that?” – this for Kate.

“I liberated it (tapping the shield) – besides, Tony Stark had no better use for it – and he likewise had to fulfill an old friend’s wish.”

“So you and Stark?...” Eli’s thoughts race on – somehow unable to accept that Bucky and Stark are working together. “No we’re not.” Bucky replies… “If I’m to be Captain America, one of the demands I gave Tony was that I’ll be independent of him and his initiative.”

“How does that work? I mean, he can’t just ignore you – if you’re unregistered. He’d be going against the laws he’s fought for.”

“Again Kate, I can’t answer that – I’ll just cross it when I need to.” Shifting topics deftly, he turns to look at the skyline “Now… talking about why we’re here…” then turns to Eli.

“Being Captain America is as much anyone’s right, Steve wasn’t the first – and he has passed on… and if the War has taught me anything, its to remind me that I’m certainly not immortal – heck, remember last Christmas? I was visiting some old friends reminding me of just that. So…should my time come, I can’t think of anyone better, off the top of my head, to take over this role – your family is after all, tied to this legacy, Eli.”

Eli looks at Bucky, trying to catch a glint of a joke – but all he sees are a determined look. He also hears Kate say a soft “Wow.” Looking at both Eli and Captain America. Then she approaches and whispers to him, “Close your mouth Eli, and your eyes… are starting to tear up.” Eli to turn to the side and say “Yeah…” more as response to Kate, than Bucky - as he clears his throat of a lump.

Then Captain America, raises his voice slightly, apparently not finished - apparently, giving Eli a good out from this possible embarrassment “…so that’s why you’ve got to practice. Like I said, I’ll help with your training, but I’m not doing this just for you – I’ve got a future to prepare… you could say, a legacy to uphold.”

Saying this, he looks at the New York skyline, his back turned to them – then he turns his face to look at them both – “So… you coming?” Eli sees a confident smile appear on Captain America’s face, and he can’t help nut notice the stark difference between this Bucky Barnes, and the one he was talking to regarding his predecessor – Jeff Mace, the Patriot.

“Yes, sir!” He proudly turns to Kate, surprised to see her teary-eyed – but smiling. He then pulls out his costume from his backpack… and Kate does the same thing.

“Good.” Says Captain America – then as he stands over the building’s corner, eyeing the lower roof several meters away, he shouts “Then, follow me!” – jumping, and disappearing – automatically, the Patriot follows, with Hawkeye just one bounce behind.

As the trio leap from rooftop to rooftop, Captain America can hear both Kate and Eli laugh – and those laughter remind him of a teen in World War II – likewise bounding, carefree… following a sentinel for liberty.

Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot - part three

2008-05-16T23:55:00.000-07:00

Captain America
“Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot…”
Part three.

The small submersible moves silently under the waters of the deep – the fact that it is of Atlantean design does not make its non-Atlantean pilot perturbed at all – after all, its designs may look newer – sleeker, but its controls are hardly that different from its World War II predecessors; the ones that their monarch lad taught him to pilot back then, while the team’s senior members would jump out of the ship – charging the enemy.

Memories of Toro come to him; his first real friend in that crazy world nearly a lifetime ago, of the times they would follow their mentors to battle. After all, how would you feel reluctant or afraid, when clearly the enemy literally froze upon seeing the charging figures of the Human Torch, the Sub-mariner and Captain America.

But they were hardly invulnerable, and thank God for that – for had they really been unbeatable, then his efforts to save them from Hitler’s control would have been doomed – even with the help of other heroes like the Patriot and the rest of the Liberty Legion. He was always proud of that achievement in his life. It was one aspect where he was able to prove that a young man could still make a difference – even one with no powers.

He never admitted it to Steve, but he had nights where he would doubt his worth in the team – but after the Liberty Legion, those doubts disappeared… that is, until he woke up realizing that he had been manipulated for decades into becoming the Winter Soldier. Heck, he was more than doubtful, he was down right ashamed of himself – so much so that he could not directly face his best friend and mentor… until it was too late…until Steve died through the Skull’s manipulations.

“…I said, starboard two degrees.” He hears Namor’s voice, and snaps back to attention to make the necessary adjustments. Namor – the self-exiled prince - no, monarch of Atlantis, prince was back in the days of World War II. Still, Namor remains one of his links from past to present, and looking at him right now, Bucky sees his preternatural impatient face. His life had been hard, and he constantly had to prove himself – thus he grew up being hard on himself – demanding a lot of himself – and by extension, others. Thus he understands Namor’s constant edginess – one that made him steer clear of the Atlantean in those early days. He even recalls one of his early talks with Steve about Namor back then.

They were recently grouped with the Torches, and his seeing Toro made him elated – finally, someone to relate to… and it seemed that Steve, as Cap, felt a feeling of kinship with Jim – the Torch. They hit it off almost at once, and General Hammond was pleased with what he saw. But when they all saw the final member of their ‘team’, he noticed that both Steve and the Torches went a bit stiff. Namor, after all, was – at one time, someone they had to fight, due to the Atlantean’s seemingly warped sense of righteousness about the seas – and how man was polluting them.

It was that evening that when he was alone with Steve, he had a talk with him. He questioned the General’s asking them to team-up with Namor, and Steve, in his seemingly, educating way, patiently explained why Atlantis’ help was needed against the War efforts.

“It’s a World War, Bucky – and just as our allies are affected by the incursions of Germany and company, so too is Atlantis threatened by our battles.” Even as he talked, Bucky spied Namor’s form several yards away – seemingly looking at the direction of the seas, yet somehow – possibly listening to their conversation – with ears like that, Bucky wouldn’t be surprised..

Steve adds, “Namor could just as easily fight anyone who would be sinking so many ships, mines and bombs into the sea – it so happens that he has seen both sides, and I’m glad he has the keen sense to realize that we’re battling for a noble cause – and freedom does not distinguish between surface or sea dwellers. I, for one, am glad he’s on our side.”

“James! If you won’t be paying attention to these instruments, maybe I should just turn this ship back and forget this trip altogether.” Bucky’s face turns slightly red – not because he was starting to get impatient with Namor, but more because he had not counted on being reprimanded – rightly so, though – in seemingly immediate succession.

“Sorry, Namor…” he says, “… this trip can’t help but bring back memories”, he pauses and adjusts a few instruments, then continues “Plus, this ship – I hadn’t remembered how silent its propulsion system is. I mean, compared to the S.H.I.E.L.D. ships, this one does not even have any semblance of engine sounds.” The comparison seems to mollify Namor a bit, and his next words are less harshly addressed.

“I understand James, and you should remember that Atlantean technology is years ahead than that of your surface world’s – though I admit to your advances, through the courtesy of Stark, catching up slightly in the past years, it is still a far cry from what we are capable of.”

“Even with the inventions of Dr. Richards?” Bucky asks, and he sees a mixture of grudging respect and frustration cross Namor’s face. But rather than retort most passionately, Namor says, “Reed Richards may be intelligent even beyond Atlantis’ level, but his inventions are strictly for his personal satisfaction. Besides, though he is honorable, the man is a fool. He sometimes does not appreciate the true treasures he has.”

James Buchanan Barnes sees it, but until this moment, he had not really believed the news – or talk, of Namor seeming amorous with the wife of Dr. Richards – yet the Namor he briefly sees just now may prove the greatest evidence his analytical mind can process to ascertain the truth to said rumor. Namor sees Bucky staring at him, and seemingly reading his mind, confirms what Bucky is thinking. “You’ve yet to meet Susan, James – a magnificent woman… strong-willed, caring and loving. I am cursed to know she is very loyal to her family. At another time and place, I might have given up the throne for her.”
‘Damn…’ is all Bucky can think, he’d known, or had thought he’d known how Namor’s current situation was difficult – but to have an unrequited love as well… damn.

“Down another twenty fathoms, James, and you should see it. Will you be needing an environmental suit?”

Spotting a small cavern made of ice, Bucky maneuvers the ship into the opening, as he replies “Not really Namor” I don’t really need to step out – your ship’s montors and its viewing plate will do just fine.” They move a few hundred meters down – the only illumination coming from the Atlantean ship, yet as they approach, the ice seems to have a luminescence making the cavern’s directions visible – and easy to follow.

Namor points to a spot, and James seems a makeshift mausoleum. Namor looks at it with respect, and he can’t help but feel a sense of peace in this place. “There it is James.” He says, Steve is in that container…”, pointing to the left-most shiny container – one of two, “…and Jim – what I can find anyway, is beside him.” They both look for a while, then Namor explains further, “I had thought it prudent to make their resting place as… unobtrusive as possible – not wanting to attract attention… and the place does not come unprotected.”

Upon saying this, it is only now that Bucky notices crevices hidden in certain angles of the cavern, and he seems to glimpse a tentacle or two… enormous at that. Bucky smiles at this, ‘Guess this is Namor’s version of the honor guard’, he muses. Then he does what he came to do – he stands up to pay his repects. Namor just silently moves to the ship’s aft – giving him the privacy he did not need to ask for.

‘Steve… Jim…, hi...’ he thinks, mentally striking a conversation – brining to fore many glimpses of his happier, more innocent, past – this despite the horrors that war had. ‘…sorry I wasn’t able to help either of you when you needed it – specially you Steve, I know you wanted to talk, but I wasn’t ready. Damn, …but as you can hopefully see, I’ve decided to continue your mission in my own way. I can’t be you, Steve, but I’ll be the best Captain America I can be’ emphasizing the last few words – promising this both to his friends, ad well as himself.

“I’ll keep the world safe from the likes of the Skull” he mumbles to himself, hoping his friends – wherever they may now be, can see and hear him. Then he snaps to attention, gives his fallen comrades a salute, returns to a relaxed state – then whispers… “Goodbye”

“Namor, I'm ready to go.”

Namor gives the place a few seconds glance, and then replies, “As am I.”

The Atlantean vessel leaves – as silently as it came, its only witness, a pair of cyclopean eyes – from two giant man-o-wars, eternal silent guardians, Atlantis' honor guards to the valiant heroes at peace.

Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot… part 2

2008-04-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

He has traveled close to two miles on foot, once in a while checking his GPS, equally marveling, not for the first time, at the concept. ‘Seeing your coordinates relative to the world – how’d they come up with this? In the old days, we simply relied on a compass, map-reading and orienteering by morning and sometimes just interpreting one’s nautical location based on the stars at night time. Maps like these were printed on large rolls of paper or were drawn painstakingly on walls or large tables.’ - recalling many strategic sessions with Cap and his other companions in the Invaders – granted, there were times that both he and Toro were not included in those ‘grown-up’ tactical sessions at Lord Falsworth’s library, but they found ways to eavesdrop. He smiles at the image of how he and Toro would alternate with the glass pressed against the door. ‘Simple yet effective.’ he thinks, somehow those were fun days.

Now they had listening devices – a hundred times smaller than the ones he vaguely remembers using when he was studying a target for Lukin, – yet, certainly, much more powerful. Then there’s this GPS – he remembers Natalia’s playful smile as she taught him all about its functionalities… “James, maps aren’t printed on paper – at least not for our purposes… we use Global Positioning Devices now.”

Obviously amused at his confusion, she proceeded to demonstrate the use of one by way of an Internet café and a computer. Again, he remembered his silent reaction – after all, he could recall visiting a room full of vacuum tubes – this with Cap and they were told the entire building wing was a computer. He then asked the army intelligence specialist what it was for – and was frankly told that it was to help calculate speed and trajectory for dropping bombs into Hitler’s strongholds. Now here he is, wearing a computer by his wrist.

He checks his progress and feels relief knowing that his destination is just over the tree lines he can see ahead about 300 feet. He scans the horizon, seeking anything not belonging in the topography – after all, this close to Latveria, he wouldn’t be surprised if this Doctor Doom would be monitoring his borders. Back on the transport, Natalia brought up Doom’s dossier – and what he read made him realize that this is one person he would best keep his distance with. ‘A darker version of Tony Stark, to say the least – a mystic, and a despot to boot. What doesn’t this guy know?’ Well, forewarned, forearmed.

Then he sees him – standing alone, wearing a blue and yellow suit, looking regal – even in this non-watery environment. Bucky raises his hand, and Namor simply makes a short glide towards him and Bucky thinks, ‘How does he fly with those wings?’ It’s always been a question he wanted to ask, but found no real ‘right time’ to do so.

“This is getting to be a habit…” showing a frown – which Bucky knows is more for show than serious irritation. “When last we talked, I though I made it clear that you cannot assume that I…” he stops, raising an eyebrow – noticing the Star at the center of Bucky’s chest, as well as the White and Red stripes below the star, in a ‘V’-like formation. Bucky segues into the silence “I’ve been busy”, Namor raises an eyebrow, “So it seems – and yet, I also notice a sidearm. Is this why you wanted to see me?” Bucky nods – “Partly, I felt that I owed you and everyone else close to Cap an explanation”

Namor looks evenly at Bucky… “Steve…”

“What?”

“You said Cap… but obviously, you have taken the colors and the identity. If this is to work, ts time you get used to calling yourself Captain America, and refer to Steve as himself whenever you become sentimental. If anything else, it becomes less confusing for anyone listening to your conversation. More importantly, you need to own the image”

“Okay,” Bucky says. “I’ll take that under consideration – you know, I never pegged you as an image-consultant… that is what they call themselves these days, right? Namor simply answers matter of factly, “I used to run a corporation – one of my more recent forays in corporate America and one of the many things I had to contend with was both corporate and personal imaging. I even – to my better judgment, conceded to wearing a suit”

“I see…” replies, Bucky. Noting the seriousness in Namor’s tone – with exception to the ‘suit’ remark. “Okay, I’ll think about what you said, and…” Showing sudden impatience, Namor interjects him mid-sentence, “No you will not! You will do it!”

Namor sighs, “Buck… James, you should realize that being Captain America is more than the costume – it is an identity and a symbol. When I first met Steve in uniform, I though it was just an outwardly colorful – if not patriotically gaudy costume. Overly dramatic and its over-all impact relatively non-threatening – and never mind what I thought of your old costume… but Steve made me realize that he was more than an overzealous soldier in flag colors. He turned that ridiculous costume into a real symbol of freedom, becoming an anti-thesis to ideals represented by Nazism”

“What does this have to do with…”

“I’m not done!… Captain America is always decisive… never hesitant! He had to inspire and lead. If you will be wearing that uniform, the way to respect his legacy and keep the memory of Captain America is to emulate his leadership capabilities – not just his fighting skills.”

Bucky looks intently at Namor for a few moments, weighing the words – then he smiles, to the confusion of the latter. “What do you find amusing?” Namor demands, “Steve…” replies Bucky, “Use the ‘memory of Steve’. I’m Captain America now – and you’re right, I’m still getting used to the idea of calling myself such and being referred to by that name…” Removing the trench-coat he had been wearing, thus revealing the uniform completely to Namor, Bucky continues. “You can see though, I’ve added a few design changes. I’ll honor Steve’s memory – but I won’t replace him.”

Namor, looks at the over-all effect, absorbing the over all the changes “Less gaudy, perhaps – but still symbolic… yet darker” and then he focuses on the cylindrical shield behind this new Captain America. “That shield,” he can’t help but noticing it, “Is that the original one?”

Looking pleased, Bucky, un-straps the, shield from his back, and confirms Namor’s observation.“Yup!, I though that Tony Stark wouldn’t just let it get buried with Steve, and he wouldn’t just put it in a museum – so I tracked its whereabouts, and – well, lets just say I liberated it.” This brings a smile to Namor – “Intriguing… still, good to know you have it. I suspected as much when I was asked by Stark to choose Steve’s resting place beneath the Artic.”

“About that… Namor, would it be possible to bring me there one day? I mean, unless you’ve got some agreement with Tony…”

Bucky notices a flash of anger comes across Namor’s face, as he comments “Stark and I are not in speaking terms these days, and even if we had such an agreement, I would think that you fall within the exception to such a rule – I’m sure Steve would agree that you are one exception, though I must warn you that the depth is nothing to sneeze about – you will definitely need a submersible if you intend to visit our friends”

The plural use does not escape Captain America, he thinks for a while, then states, “So you placed Steve with…. Jim?”. Namor nods, “What little I could find.” After he exploded over the arctic I tried finding him, but only found scattered parts. It may be possible that others have taken his body – after all, its not as if he really died. He got revived once, he could possibly be revived again.”

“So what was at Dymhurst? I mean, I read the articles…” “An L.M.D., courtesy of the V-batallion.” Namor explains, “We could not recover everything… and we needed to present a body for his funeral. Plus, we needed to make sure no one tried to steal him again, like the Mad Thinker did, all those years ago.

Namor starts walking south, and beckons Bucky to accompany him. “Where we going?” Bucky asks. Namor points the opposite direction from where he came from… “Farther from the Latverian border.”

Further explaining as they both move, Namor continues… “During my lone moments here, I discovered an inn, quaint, quiet and surprisingly well stocked – plus, it sits overlooking a lake… my kind of a vacation spot… peaceful and near a great body of water. I thought we might as well continue this talk in a more relaxing environment.”

“Besides… though we are allies out of shared convenience, I do not fully trust Doom to leave our conversation in private. I may be his guest for now, but our history is hardly ideal to trust. As it is, I already disabled quite a few of his transceivers. I’m sure some of his robots will patrol that area to investigate real soon. We might as well move to talk elsewhere, lest I be forced to further strain my welcome status.”

“Alright…”

“And one more thing… you are footing the bill.”

“What?”

Namor looks at him, deadpan serious – but if experience all those years ago has taught Bucky anything, he knows this is another ‘show’ face... complete with raised eyebrows “You came here to get my approval or permission, did you not? – you might as well continue by paying for this little celebration.” Bucky stops. “Now hold on. Who said I was looking for your approval?” It is a rare occasion to see Namor smile, and this time is no exception – more so because of its unexpectedness.

“James, how long have we known each other? Amongst everyone in the surface world currently alive, I would say that you know me best, and Winter Soldier experience not withstanding, I think that I can certainly say the same of you.” Namor stops walking to face Bucky fully, pointing a finger to his chest “You needed acceptance, approval and confirmation that you’re not making a big mistake in taking the mantle Steve left. I just did that for you, and now, as you surface dwellers as so fond of saying, you owe me for that.”

Looking bemused, Bucky states, “You’ve really changed, Namor…”, “We both had, lad.”, and noting Bucky’s own raised eye brow, he confirms his last statement. “… but Captain America uniform aside, I still see you as that gawdy-dressed young man, eager to please his mentor… seeking acceptance into a team he was so thrilled to be a part of”

“The Invaders…” Bucky confirms. “Yes, that group – it certainly isn’t the All-winners squad!” snaps Namor, impatience once again rising… but when he sees a blank on Bucky’s face, he realizes “Of course you don’t know them… I’m talking way past your involvement in the war.” Pressing a hidden device in his costume, Namor de-cloaks an Atlantean ship a few meters away. “My apologies, James… but there was, as you know, a need to replace both Steve and you during the closing days of the war. We – that it, the Invaders, understood, but we didn’t feel it was right, and a few months later we disbanded – and with the Euroupean theatre closing, it gave us a convenient excuse.”

“Anyway – lets talk more when we get to that quaint inn.” Won’t the owners feel worried about you dropping in unannounced?” Bucky asks. To which Namor shrugs “Had they been reluctant those past weeks, I’m sure they would have said so, when they accepted my offer to buy their place – you see James, old habits die… this one, the habit of buying-into what I like, I learned in my stint at corporate America.

Walking in, Bucky says, “Yeah… about your wearing a suit…”

Should Old Acquaintance be Forgot (FanFic featuring Bucky Barnes a.k.a. Captain America)

2008-03-05T07:09:00.000-08:00

Just made this a few days ago - and its hopefully going to be featured in avengersforever.org along with all my other fanfics.

Captain America
“Should Old Acquaintance Be Forgot…”
Part one.

“Are you sure, you know what you’re doing?... nyet, fine…” catching herself before she started sounding like a mother - she raises her hands in a mock surrender gesture. “…you know what you are doing.”. This last statement said in an exasperated tone. He looks at her, and half remembers, the young spy in training all those years ago – though truth be told, for him it seemed just about some months back.. Its still the same face, slightly older – definitely more assured of herself, and still damn attractive. “What…?” , he hears her say, and he snaps back to the present. “What, ‘what’?” he asks her back.

She frowns, knowing it was more an incident of daydreaming, rather than a loss of hearing – or brain damage, for that matter. “I said ‘what’, James… because you were looking unfocused. We both know there could still be possible side-effects from your experiences these past months. I just need to know if you are feeling fine.” He smiles at her, “Yes mother, I’m fine… and I’ll be fine – I know what I’m doing. No need to abort this flight.” She looks back at her instruments, but not before stating “…says the man who plans to go into Latveria. No sane person decides to just go to Latveria. Its not exactly a tourist attraction.”

He leans to the side of the S.H.I.E.L.D. transport’s co-pilot seat, this time facing Natasha Romanov, former elite spy for the Soviets, now super-spy for S.H.I.E.L.D. and now, apparently, ‘his’ unofficial liaison to said spy organization – and possible baby-sitter. ‘Then again,…’ he muses, Tony – that is, Director Stark could have chosen worse - being ‘assigned’ the Black Widow to him… even if he often than not insists to her that he does not need any help is still, he must admit, a welcome decision. The fact that the Widow could get in trouble should their secret missions be made public, makes her involvement all the more appreciated.

But like him, he is quite sure that their time alone flying in and out of missions are equally welcome to her… a chance to get reacquainted… and maybe pick up from where they left off.

“You know Natalia,” using the name he remembers her by, “I’m not entering Latverian grounds – he’s agreed to meet me by its borders. So I won’t be causing any international altercations – at least, not as grand as you and Tony’s Avengers some weeks past.”

Frowning, she mentions “Don’t judge them James, you were not there when the virus was affecting everyone in New York… it was a scary situation, a biological attack, and when the evidence led to Doom, well... we assumed that it was a predetermined attack on Doom’s part”. We did everything by the book – as far as S.H.I.E.L.D.’s protocols for handling terror attacks.

Seeing the discomfort his remark caused, he backtracks, “Hey, sorry, guess that came out wrong, I wasn’t judging your team… lord knows I’m not exactly Mr. Squeaky Clean.” Seeing a chance to even the odds, she smiles in a slightly predatory – yet teasing fashion “Even when you wear his colors and symbols now?” At this remark, James Buchanan Barnes loses his slight worried look and seemingly replaces it with a more serious look.

His tone informs her that she has indeed drawn blood - figuratively. “Yes…” he replies. “…specially since I’m now wearing this”, gesturing to the star at the chest of his uniform under his black trench-coat. It is her turn to apologize, “James, forgive me… I did not mean to…” “No need to apologize Talia, I’ve accepted the burden this role comes with – I don’t like it – but after reading Steve’s letter… I just had to do it.” and the cabin remains silent the rest of the trip, with the transport’s engine the only sound both of them hear.

After what seems to be a lifetime of silence, the Widow reminds her silent companion that his ‘agreed upon’ coordinates are five minutes away. He simply stands up and makes a move to the transport’s airlock. She turn her head and calls back to him, “James…”, and is mildly startled to see him right behind her. He gently place his index finger – his real one, to her mouth… almost instinctive, very natural – yet, likewise, awkward. “Its all right Natasha” using her more generic and modern nickname. “I deserve a reminder once in a while.” He then readies his parachute and stays poised to open the door.

“This unnamed person you’ll be meeting,… its Namor, isn’t it?”; saying it more like a statement, than a query. His smile returns to his face. “…been analyzing my motives?” he asks – the slight playful tone returned. Lad that the mood has lightened, she mentions “I need not have deductive skills to come up with the usual suspects, far as you’re concerned.” she says, “There is just a handful of people you are connected with at this time, and I have read some reports of his sighting near Latveria. Not to mention the fact that I have had years of espionage training… so yes, I have a very good idea who you are meeting – though the why still escapes me.”

“You know I can’t confirm… or deny that detail. How would you claim plausible deniability? As for your training, I vaguely remember being part of that too.”, winking while he says this – obviously hinting at their ‘training times’. As he starts to open the first airlock, the Widow interjects again, “James...” she says, “…be careful, I can’t back you up on this meeting of yours.”

As some slight decompression is happening, he offers her a parting statement, “You know? I just love to hear you say my name with that slight Russian accent – it reminds me of those movies I’ve been watching lately, the one about that British agent with those funny toys?”, she smiles “Maybe I should start calling you Bucky, then, before that cowl becomes too tight for your over inflated head.” He laughs at that, a rare occasion these days, and welcome to her as she sees him closing the first airlock, and proceeding to the second one.

Opening the second airlock more decompression happens and he views all open skies, he looks at her and salutes, before jumping… Natalia Romanov feels a slight sense of ‘de javu’ - thinking for a moment that she saw a different Captain America at that instant. ‘Well, at least he got the departure bit down pat’, she thinks, and banks the transport westward.

Checking her radar, she smiles at the fact that none of Latveria’s defenses have scrambled. Nothing like great intel, and whatever can be said about their recent incursion into Doom’s land, it did afford her a golden opportunity to observe and assess Latveria’s ordnance. Still, she had better keep track of her partner’s descent – just in case he needs a quick getaway.

Seeing the transport veering back to its point of origin, James Buchanan Barnes free falls – his face a mask of pure concentration, intently focused on the growing land mass below him, mentally calculating his altitude and point where he should pull the chute’s release cord. He takes the time to look at his wrist to check his altitude – courtesy of a S.H.I.E.L.D.-borrowed watch with built-in altimeter. ‘Amazing toys’, he thinks. ‘Barnes, James Barnes, yeah… its got a ring to it, and that spy jumped planes too’. Though he doubts some stunts the movie showed, he knows for a fact that some of them – despite their seeming incredible actions, are possible – after all’, “…been there, done that" he mumbles.

James Buchanan Barnes then spreads his arms and legs for more drag, to slow his descent a bit. He's ahead of schedule - no need to rush, so he lets gravity allow him to fall naturally - by his calculations, he should rip the chord in around 15 more seconds.

-to be continued-

Shadow's Inc - Escaped Gorilla insider notes

2008-02-05T03:03:00.000-08:00

Think of this as the story behind the story - comparable to the director's narrative to his work in the DVD.

"Escaped Gorilla" may not be one of the more original stories or plot that people may come upon, and its not really meant to be... See the idea can be found in the Marvel Super Heroes Role Playing Game. It happens to be one of several introductory plots that the Games Master (a.k.a. Watcher - named after Uatu naturally, a Watcher in the Marvel Universe) can use to set the games up.

The premise of SI was supposed to be a low-key adventure... street level, not really cosmic (as in Avengers or X-men level) in nature. Its meant to be more mundane. There are two reasons for this... A) its easier to control an adventure that does not have to go traipsing in other universes - and for a beginner Watcher, as I was then, it was a logical move; B) it was also an introductory adventure for a new set of players - people who did not know each other's playing style so well yet. Well, it so happens that the players in this situation were two friends of mine - Johhny Alegre and Ditto Amador.

Between the two, Ditto had more playing time experience in RPGs - in fact I would say that he introduced me to the concept and brought me to meet some players - and try the game out. Johnny on the other hand was a newbie to RPG - but listening to how high we praised the experience, he naturally became curious, and was willing to go give the game a try. So we agreed to a date and time, met at my place and started playing a Marvel game that would eventually be called Shadow's Inc. Of course, this little get together was likewise an excuse to meet and drink as well - and rather than run out of conversation items, a game could easily keep us busy from late night until dawn (we normally started after dinner).

One thing I liked about RPGs was its non-predictability by way of how some characters (players) would act - or react... but that is what kept the game going well. The randomness, the characters interacting, solving problems, analyzing clues - and of course, your usual fights - within game rules that is.

Wanting to find out how things would resolve... be it a murder mystery, a case of mistaken identity, stopping a killer or tackling mystically enhanced mortals - the stories got us to interact, and react to situations beyond what normally happens... and as GM (or Watcher), I would prepare a loose plot and see where things went, having a few milestone events that the characters would have to go through, but waiting for the right time to dish out the scenario to them. I also looked for a way to later introduce a few comic book characters - strictly as non-players, but with the intent to keep the spirit of the shared universe.

For Shadow's Inc., it was important to concentrate on seeing how my players would react to given scenarios and make them meet up. To be sure, some character actions may seem out-of-the-box from a first look standpoint, but they all seemed to work in the end. Take for example, Johnny's character rushing off to get a bunch of bananas (as dictated by him, of course). This was a classic not your typical hero's action perhaps - but definitely human, and therefore more believable and original. Ditto, of course, worked and built on Johnny's initiative.

Back then, I thought to use Shadow's Inc. as a test run for us all - considering it to just being a simple run of the mill generic story. A get your feet wet and go on thing... but my players were able to make a great entertaining story... and as any gamer would tell you, the post-mortems are equally great conversation pieces. We definitely had a great time. No wonder the adventures lasted as long as they did.

Shadows Inc. File 01

2007-12-23T06:55:00.000-08:00

From the Files of Shadows Inc.

File 01 : Escaped Gorilla

Roll Call: Anthony Baker
Derek Lone

The weather seemed perfect, it was the type one would imagine for an idyllic autumn stroll in the park – specifically, Central Park on a Sunday Afternoon. The sun was not too hot, and its rays were bright with just enough of a breeze to see the leaves swirl – picture perfect, post-card style. All these registered into Anthony Baker’s mind as he casually lazed in one of numerous park benches near the outskirts of the park.

The trees were starting to give up their near orange-hued leaves, allowing them to drop one or two at a time… and Derek was taking the time to exercise a new past-time; that being a relaxing mode of observing people move through the park’s walkways, pathways or simply through the area in a straight line – avoiding obstacles where necessary.

Tony, 6 feet, medium built, Caucasian, dark hair, clean shaven, with a slight haggard look – as he’d probably describe himself - by way of his reflection from an earlier shop window; liked this particular spot because it presented him with a view of one cross-road, thus doubling his viewing pleasure. It was not just the women – and there were more than enough head turners either jogging or walking to work; rather it was the whole gamut of life that this city had to offer.

How many just passed each other – oblivious of their shared world, or how some reacted or even socialized with each other when meeting familiar faces. This was Tony’s favorite hobby – seeing people, observing them, with the trained eye that a police detective would have… yet in this case, just absorbing the multitude of images that his mind could process. Part of this was also a mental exercise – seeing a face, wondering if, for the first time, this was a face he had not seen before – or when seemingly remembering a familiar face, he would extrapolate from his mind where and possibly when he had seen this person before – and paint a picture of what this person was wearing then, and now.

Make no mistake, though… Tony was not a person in possession of photographic memory – far from it, he’d just as easily forget where he’d put his keys if he had not gotten a key chain and attached it to his pant’s right belt loop. Nope… definitely not a memory savant - instead, Tony’s life has many memories he would rather try to forget… his recent divorce, for starters – then the picture of his daughter with tears, upon learning that he was leaving; moving from L.A. to New York – in an effort to pick up his life, after quitting the police force in the city of Angels, and being left by his wife. Life was the pits for Tony back there, the job had long hours, and his wife was distant.

At times, he’d blame himself for her indiscretion - one’s he’d discovered about, but had not pursued. On the other hand, she blamed him for his never being around. An ugly divorce battle was rearing its head up, until Tony just decided to forget about it, and let his lawyer ensure that his daughter kept his things legally – unfortunately, she was just 15 - a minor for all intents and purpose, and thus, in need of a legal guardian.

Sandra’s mom, Tony’s wife, rather; his ex-wife, Heather, tried to convince the judge that she was in the best position to handle her daughter’s finances until such a time that Sandra was of age. Tony insisted that the money be held by his counselor’s firm, to protect his daughter’s interest. Naturally, Heather did not take this sitting down, and tried collecting alimony to wipe Tony’s remaining finances.

Tony felt stifled and just needed to do things differently – and in a different environment, hence, after riding a cross-country greyhound bus for several days, Tony landed in the big apple, to make his mark, possibly putting too much stock into Sinatra’s lines about making it anywhere. With his near chiseled looks, and conservative haircut, he might have easily passed on for a TV star (some say he’d be a dead ringer to the guy who used to play the Green Hornet in those old campy shows) for and some would even think that he’d have a better chance of making it in L.A. than N.Y. – but after his marriage ending up the way it did – Hollywood land was the farthest place he’d like to find himself in.

Passing in front of a news stand, he scans a few headlines – soaking in the news, taking stock of the headlines. He’d like to read how this city’s crime scene was like last night – but that would be his old habit talking. Nope, he was not a cop now… and those days are done – instead, he’d probably be better served looking at the society page, possibly scouting around for future clientele… after all, where there’s a need for keeping secrets – there will also be a need to find secrets… and finding secrets are what Tony does best.

Meanwhile, in another part of Central Park…

Spotting a hot dog vendor outside the park, a man decides to get up, approach it and order, his trench-coat catches a little wind and flaps revealing dark slacks, a buttoned down shirt and necktie loosely hung around his collar, both dark-colored to present an almost totally black wardrobe. His head’s close-cropped hair, dark brown in color gives him a slight militaristic look, and his rugged features hint at similar regimen. Derek Lone, single, mid 30s, nears the stand and orders the all beefy frank with a semi low toned voice and a half-hearted smile; bordering on a smirk. One quick look at Lone conjures up images of "Bladerunner".

He reaches into his pocket for some currency, as the vendor busies the creation of the proffered sandwich. Business was doing fine – as fine as any gun selling business / ‘mercenary for a cause’ for hire business would go. The first a cover for the latter, and Lone had been ‘rumored’ to be able to move merchandise easily and successfully – though he seemed to suffer from a major flaw in the underground economy business of running guns – that flaw being a conscience similar to that of the character Rick from Casablanca – a classic that Derek would not admit to watching more than once, and a character he’d likely not admit to liking as well… except maybe to a few close friends, which of course meant no one really in particular. Conscience or not, one did not survive his line of work without being slightly paranoid.

Still, it was walks in this park that would make Derek relax a bit, but it was also a reassurance by himself that should trouble ever erupt, he’d never be caught empty-handed in any situation… NEVER, as a few surprised misguided elements often learned the hard way.

Lone has made it almost a habit to check his back for shadows – any sign that someone might be paying him more than passing interest. After all, better safe than sorry. His head suddenly cranes up a bit and his facial features come alert as he hears approaching sirens – police sirens, and from the sounds of it at least three cars fast approaching.

Has something happened within the park?, he wonders, and decides to satisfy his curiosity by checking the action out. If anything, it should be a highlight to what was turning out to be a quiet day.

Baker, likewise, hears the siren and he too wonders what is happening.

The last thing he should do is add to the crowd-control problems that the local authorities would need to worry about – yet he has had training… the least he could do would be to assist the local officers by helping herd ever enthusiastic observers from possible danger. He spots the cars parked and approaches some early onlookers deciding to ask if they knew what was happening.

A jogger informs him that he’s overheard from his radio that there seemed to be an escaped gorilla from the local zoo. Before he can confirm such a ridiculous story, a van parks near the black and whites, and from it disembark SWAT members – though not in a seemingly hurried state. If anything, they seem mildly amused with their assignment.

Lone arrives and notices the ordnance – his first clue that things are not your run of the mill police or SWAT case. Dart guns? Why is SWAT using darts? Closer scrutiny reveals Tranquilizers – so his only remaining question is who or what are they planning to use the tranqs on? As the SWAT team spreads out, Lone brings out a military-issued set of binoculars and scans the intended area. Using the intended location of the SWAT members, he mentally triangulates their intended target and realizes what everyone just now are beginning to realize – it is a gorilla, having climbed a tree to keep away from the noise and people - but its not alone.

His binoculars reveal that the gorilla is not alone… in fact, wrapped around its neck are small arms. Lone realizes that the gorilla has its young with it. Baker, positioning himself near a police officer with a radio, hears a similar set of information being relayed to the SWAT team – the gorilla will not be forthcoming as it will be defending its young. Making matters worse, the young may be too weak to the tranquilizer’s potency and any potential miss to the mother, may hit the youngling. In light of this, the zoo’s management has requested that tranqs not be used… thus making the easy route of simply tranquilizing the gorilla and picking it up an unacceptable option.

Tony strikes a conversation with the officer, and realizes this – both from listening to the radio and by some inference. He slowly introduces himself, mentioning his credentials and asking if he can help in any way. The officer just tells him to stay back –as that would be the best way to help… by keeping out of their way. Derek also positions himself near the same officer in the general vicinity of the now thickening crowd – though he holds back a bit, not wanting to attract attention.

As the police try to think of a possible solution, media helicopters and vans arrive – the latter, positioning themselves close to the action – or as close as they are allowed, by the cordoning police… and the former actually closing in, getting the ire of both the officers on the scene and the gorilla. One officer quips ‘now the circus is complete’ and Derek can’t help but commiserate with the feeling.

Tony, however is deep in thought… considering options, when he suddenly snaps a finger, exclaiming, “That’s it!” He tells the officer he’ll be back. Derek, curious, asks what Tony was planning and Tony sizing Derek up as possible help, tells him of the plan and asks if he (Derek) would like to help. Derek thinks it’s a crazy idea – but one that could work, so he say “Sure… why not?”

The two run off heading away from the park. Reactions from other observers vary from “… maybe they got scared” to “strange people these Americans…” this last one coming from an Asian tourist who happens to be taking video clips with his personal camera. Baker ends up in a fruit stand and purchases a “bunch of bananas” while Lone spies the gorilla cage on top of the zoo transport (a second one, since the first one was still stuck in an accident – the apparent cause of the cage falling down a accidentally opening).

Lone approaches the cage, looks around to see if anyone was looking… satisfied that no one was paying him notice, he touches the cage and it disappears. Lone then spots Baker buying the bananas, joins him to help carry them and as they starts walking back to the park, they exchange names for the first time.

As they arrive, carrying the bananas, Baker convinces the officer-in-charge to try things their way, since it is a low-risk idea that may just work and will convince the gorilla to come down, hopefully making the trick of tranquilizing the gorilla easier by injecting the tranq into the banana.

Lone sneaks away to a clearing and again checks if anyone is visibly looking his way… satisfied that he is not visible, he makes the cage rematerialize. He then returns near Baker, catching the latter part of his plan. The officer asks how he (Tony) is planning to make sure the gorilla eats the banana and is safely captured, since it will be difficult to approach without making it mad, which might accidentally make her drop her young.

Baker explains that based on his observations, the Gorilla, by now, is hungry and tired – so the banana will be enticing bait. As for how to capture it… this is when Lone steps in and explains that maybe a banana trail can be made to lead from the gorilla’s current tree, to the gorilla cage he spotted around the vicinity, pointing to… and showing where he found the cage. Convinced to try things their way, the police allow the two to approach the gorilla, as they lay out a trail from the cage to the tree.

As they trail is finally laid out, Lone notices that the gorilla is still reluctant to get down… to which Tony grabs a banana and shouts, “Hey monkey! Catch!” Lucky enough, the gorilla does catch the banana – consumes it and is thus determined to get some more. Both Lone and Baker retreat, so as not to pose a threat to the gorilla and it’s young. The gorilla does come down from the tree and proceeds to follow the trail – with everyone watching with batted breath. Even the media covering the turn of events, seem to be reporting in whispered tones, aware of the importance in not doing anything that would alarm the gorilla from its current path.

The gorilla eventually ends up in the cage, and its handlers slowly inch towards the cage’s opening to close it. Luckily, the tranquilizer is beginning to affect it, and it hardly notices as the cage is closed, and with it the problem facing the city’s police.

Everyone erupts into a celebratory mood, with high fives and even hugs being exchanged. Baker is the man of the hour, as the media approaches him while Lone keeps himself away from the media limelight. Lone realizes, however, that he likes this feeling of helping others… but he’d better get back to business, now that this situation had been solved.