Call this a preemtive strike. Like the original thread, I'm thinking it would be nice having a dedicated thread to the new story.
Based on the teaser drawing, I'm thinking this story will involve Prince. If memory serves me right, Rhene was imprisioned when she delivered a message for the high priestess. That message mentions the need for a council. Whatever that need, it can no longer be deferred.
Regarding the picture, it suggested a Christmas card. The ladies of Prince's harem come across as whimsical. It is an excellent teaser.
Yet those who followed the first story know something dark about our poodle. She is far more cunning than her looks suggest.
Will await the beginning of this new adventure.
Well, two bits of news since the first comment was posted:
1 ---- The story will center around the harem. As the site's administrator said, this was obvious looking at the teaser. I'm not backing down from my earlier comment regarding the purpose of the story, the letter from the high priestess attending the Orb of Storms. Base on what the administrator said regarding Prince during the game, and his attitude when Rhene delivered her message, the real power behind the dog castle is Annabelle. Perhaps a little court intrigue as one of the other ladies tries usurping her perceived powers?
2 ---- The story's start is slated for July 7th, which is a Thursday. I know the first story ran once a week on Wednesday. Will we be seeing the same thing with this adventure, but with a different day? The biggest news is having the story done in color. Hats off to the staff for that change. How about providing a link to whatever art site used so we can admire his/her other works?
Quote from: cairn destop on Jun 30, 2011, 10:41 AM
The story's start is slated for July 7th, which is a Thursday.
Thursday will indeed be the new update day.
Quote from: cairn destop on Jun 30, 2011, 10:41 AM
How about providing a link to whatever art site used so we can admire his/her other works?
I will ask the artist about that.
Ah, great to see the forum again. Thank-you very much for your comment on the teaser. I hope that you guys will enjoy the upcoming tale as much as I have enjoyed illustrating the first several strips. Mr. Pearce has a great story lined up for you. Regarding artwork, I plan on actually using my account at Furaffinity sometime in the near future, so if you have the opportunity, please search for my username during the next several weeks.
First strip and lots to say, all complimentary.
1 --- I noticed the characters continue standing on their toes. Good continuity.
2 --- There's a nice mixture of morphs at the fair. I noted dog - juggler, rat - playing ball, elk - near the tent, and ram - wheelbarrow of potatoes. Not sure if the one holding the fish is a bear. The white-furred female on the far left appears to be a ferret in her winter coat, think that's an ermine. I'm not certain, but the one at the tent might be a mouse, judging by the rounder ears.
3 --- The bear made a great bargain, he gets to keep his fish, and the ram provided him a full bucket of potatoes. It reminded me of the old saying about having your cake and eating it too.
4 --- The merchant at Annabelle's table remains unknown. I'll be expecting him/her to appear in next week's strip. My curiosity is running amok regarding the species.
5 --- The character with his/her back to the reader in the middle panel is unidentified as far as species, though it can be assumed to be a dog since (s)he accompanies Annabelle. I cannot tell if there is a bow holding his fur or a pair of sunglasses. I'm thinking bow, which would mean a possible fourth lady in the court.
6 --- I checked out the archive page. The thumbnail picture is an excellent idea. The three for the previous adventure were great memory joggers.
7 --- A suggestion, for what it's worth. Can you move the character cameos to the sketch section? With the exception of Annabelle and Prince, we should be seeing many new faces. The descriptive text may require rewording to keep it connected to this adventure.
They say first impressions are lasting ones. That said, I thought I would share mine with the writers. I'm curious to know how others perceived the trio from this initial appearance.
Lady Annabelle --- Her portrail in the story so far is one of regal position. She is dressed as a high lady should and flaunts it. The artwork highlights her intelligence and her upper class bearing. This doesn't mean she isn't above putting her equals down whenever they step out of line. I see her as the brains of the trio.
Lady Dolores --- This one is anything but a lady. She is rebellious against the social norms by dressing in a masculine manner. She has a temper, and is offended when no wrong is done. She prefers a direct confrontation, hating anything that hints at her feminine nature. The artwork brings that out when the merchant makes a casual remark about her presence. I see her weilding the knife and not being afraid to put it in somebody's heart.
Lady Cecelia --- This lady is the one I wouldn't trust. She uses her size as a weapon, deceiving everyone. Her attire is almost infantile, as are her actions. Note how the inner skirt shows, something a parent will do with a girl under three since it highlights the cute factor. The artwork emphasizes this innocence. I'm thinking this lady has the political savy to use that factor to her advantage.
Note how the last line, "inventive and sarcastic ... touche, Dolores," could be spoken by either Annabelle or Cecelia.
Hum...
Quote from: cairn destop on Jul 29, 2011, 07:05 AM
Lady Annabelle --- Her portrayal in the story so far is one of regal position. She is dressed as a high lady should and flaunts it. The artwork highlights her intelligence and her upper class bearing. This doesn't mean she isn't above putting her equals down whenever they step out of line. I see her as the brains of the trio.
That's about right. Of course we've seen Annabelle before in the first story, Little Wolf Lost (http://inherittheearth.net/comic.shtml?0062).
Quote from: cairn destop on Jul 29, 2011, 07:05 AM
Lady Dolores --- This one is anything but a lady. She is rebellious against the social norms by dressing in a masculine manner. She has a temper, and is offended when no wrong is done. She prefers a direct confrontation, hating anything that hints at her feminine nature. The artwork brings that out when the merchant makes a casual remark about her presence. I see her wielding the knife and not being afraid to put it in somebody's heart.
Although her name has not been mentioned in the comic before, Dolores did appear in this comic (http://inherittheearth.net/comic.shtml?0051), sitting to the left of Annabelle in panel 1. Seems to dress quite the lady when in court.
Quote from: cairn destop on Jul 29, 2011, 07:05 AM
Lady Cecelia --- This lady is the one I wouldn't trust. She uses her size as a weapon, deceiving everyone. Her attire is almost infantile, as are her actions. Note how the inner skirt shows, something a parent will do with a girl under three since it highlights the cute factor. The artwork emphasizes this innocence. I'm thinking this lady has the political savy to use that factor to her advantage.
Note how the last line, "inventive and sarcastic ... touche, Dolores," could be spoken by either Annabelle or Cecelia.
The use of a French term, "touché," is a sure sign that Annabelle is the speaker of that line. So, a reader can only consider Cecelia's line, "I met a funny bear selling candy," as an indication of her character.
Sometimes cute is just cute.
It's been a month and I'm thinking it time to update my comments. Some interesting things are happening in these last few strips. Maybe it is overkill noting something on each strip, but nobody else has offered any comments. Seems a shame not letting both the writer and artist know what you're thoughts are about this latest work.
Homeward Bound:
The third panel hit me as the most interesting. We see there are feral animals in this world. Note the squirrel on the tree just outside its home. Would love knowing what Lady Cecelia is holding. It looked like a fish.
One Happy Castle:
In a way, I found this a nice reply to my comment about Lady Dolores. Apparently, she is savvy enough to know where and when to dress like a lady. She does have a far more feminine feel in this strip. I suppose the clothes do make the character.
What is Lady Cecelia doing in the second panel? I've been bouncing between two options, eating something, or playing a musical instrument. Again, I'm wondering if our little on is playing the child role too well as she appears to be climbing into Lady Annabelle's lap in the fourth panel.
Day Trip:
Now this strip disturbed me. If these three are indeed second only to Prince, why must they sneak out of the castle? Is there a reason why they must be back before Prince? It makes me wonder. Are females in this world even more subservient than their human counterparts are at the same time?
Let's not forget what happened to the vase. Lady Annabelle held it in the previous strip, now it is gone.
Hummingbirds:
Perhaps my assessment of Lady Cecelia is wrong. Based on this strip and the comment in the fourth panel, I'm wondering if the little one is a few sandwiches short of a picnic. Lady Annabelle's expression would make me think Lady Cecelia's mental status is questionable, and has been for some time.
Attention Deficit:
Our artist should be commended for the details in the fourth panel. I noticed the ring, and initially thought this an error. Then I wondered if the ring fell out of the vase or if she found it in her wanderings. Just one small nit, where is the vase?
Another nice thing on the artistic side is how much expression is in Lady Annabelle's face. The first panel has her upset and shouting. The third has her miffed.
Golden Ring:
It was funny how the other two ladies make no follow-up comment to the remark from the previous week about a sound. They have dismissed the comment. Lady Dolores wonders if something struck Lady Cecelia on the head. When they notice the ring, Lady Annabelle jumps to the conclusion that Lady Cecelia is a thief.
As to the ring, I'm wondering if it is the same one mentioned in the previous adventure. Though the picture shows it as a dog, is it possible that the animal is actually a wolf? This could be something noted in a future week when the ring is given more scrutiny.
Does anyone want to know my theory regarding the fate of the missing vase? Lady Cecelia took the vase while the other two talked. Whichever character found the ring in the Boar King's mud bath dropped it while traveling to, or from, some secret meeting. Lady Cecelia found the ring and left the vase where she first spotted it.
Ah, the missing vase. If you notice, Dolores has been wearing a knapsack on her back since leaving the fair. Though your theories are sound, I am afraid that the idea was to suggest that Annabelle had placed the vase away in the sack rather than carry it the entire way home (which would make her future actions very cumbersome). Her hand positons around the chord suggest that Dolores is being particularly careful with it (leave it Belle to pick the most fragile souvenir).
By the by, that's a butterfly landing on Sissy's finger in the third panel (specifically a blue emporer, which are amazingly bright and reflective). If I am remembering correctly from the game, in the clearings where Riff could encounter Kylas Honeyfoot, there are rabbits, squirrels and birds visibly flitting about the landscape. Good catch!
As to the sound you mention, the previous strip concluded with Cecelia exclaiming to no one in particular "That sounds like fun!" to which the reply is "What sounds like fun?" Seeing that she is having an imaginary conversation, Dolores jumps to the assumption that something has affected her mind.
Thank-you very much for your compliments (they really do make me feel good inside) and for commenting. We love comments. -_-
Checked out the character sketches on October 11, 2011. Very nice pictures of the cast. Good learning what breed Lady Dolores was. Isn't Kylas Honeyfoot a character from the computer game? I thought he was a bear, not a mouse. I'm also curious about the background image for Lady Annabelle. Looks like some type of pictogram.
Quote from: cairn destop on Oct 12, 2011, 05:49 AM
Checked out the character sketches on October 11, 2011. Very nice pictures of the cast. Good learning what breed Lady Dolores was. Isn't Kylas Honeyfoot a character from the computer game? I thought he was a bear, not a mouse. I'm also curious about the background image for Lady Annabelle. Looks like some type of pictogram.
I'm glad you liked the portraits (http://inherittheearth.net/characters.html). They will be publicly announced along with tomorrow's update.
Yes, Kylas is from the game; and he is a Mouse.
All of the new portraits have two-colored backgrounds. Annabelle's is just the most prominent.
More comments on the strips posted since my last posting. Come on now, somebody has to have an opposing view or supporting observation. I've even delayed making comments hoping another member would add their insight.
And now, onto my comments regarding the strips.
Inner Dialogue:
Okay, the verdict is official. Lady Cecelia is operating with less than all oars in the water. The casual reaction of the other two characters infers this is one of those worse kept secrets. Based on comments regarding Prince made in the earlier story, and some of the references made about him in the game, I can see why the two are attracted to one another.
Pomeranian Dreams:
This installment, along with the previous one has me worried. If this is going where I think it is, our authors have missed their target by the proverbial mile. Worse yet, they have destroyed the continuity of the ITE universe. It appears we have the introduction of a mystic with paranormal abilities. I hope I'm wrong on that assessment.
Magic has a way of becoming too much of a crutch. Get in trouble, wave a wand, and the character solves the impossible problem. Too often, I see magic used as a means of evading a good story. If there is a logical explanation as to how Lady Cecelia can "hear" another voice while the others are attending, I do hope it come out later in the story. If it turns out the ring is some form of lost human technology, I can accept that, with the appropriate clarifications.
Let me preface my comment by saying I have zero artistic talent. You would be lucky getting me to draw a straight line with a ruler.
Something good: The character's expressions are super. The artist has conveyed so much in a simple look.
Something bad: The fourth panel, Lady Annabelle, the fingers appear disproportioned.
Glowing Insult:
I'm going to withhold my judgment until I know more about our new character. Is he a spirit, real, or a projection from some recovered human artifact? The manner of dress would make me think scholar, which would tend to support the third option. If the first option, I'll be most disappointed. If he is real, where was he before this meeting? How did he literally pop onto the scene? Moreover, how did he manage to evade detection?
Again, my main concern is that Lady Cecelia. She holds the status of demented child, which makes her an interesting sidebar, and not a character worth following. Her submission is too childlike, a helpless pout as the elder does whatever she thinks appropriate. Lady Cecelia needs to assert herself at some point and establish her credentials as a viable addition to the story. Right now, she is a disposable plot device.
Behold the Shining Knight:
I'll join Lady Dolores, I'm confused as to how she is the only one not seeing the other character. I'm sure it has something to do with the ring. No doubt touching it has some affect on the mind. Contact with the ring allows one to see and hear him. Though the term "shining knight" might be acceptable, the unknown character appears more scholar than soldier. I'm wondering how long it will take Lady Annabelle to figure out the connection with the ring, or if the ghost will offer an explanation.
Fade Away:
Perhaps it is too early in the new story to start offering explanations. Lady Dolores has not seen, heard, or scented, the unknown character. His gradual fadeout makes me think some form of projection, which means lost human technology. It still begs the question how two of them saw and heard the apparition, while the third didn't. The ring has to be the common connector.
Lady Cecelia's reaction is still too immature for my liking. She accepts this with too much enthusiasm, and without any reasoning. Even her reply and expression reminds me of a child told about Santa Claus for the first time. Wait until she learns the truth, it will be a real shock to her.
Contact:
I feel for Lady Annabelle. She knows what she knows, but cannot explain it to somebody else. At least she has reasoned out the possible reason why Lady Dolores never saw the vision / ghost / projection.
Speaking of Lady Dolores, she still has the sharp tongue. I'm pleased that she has the intelligence to come up with something of a witty retort regarding them being touched. The double meaning gave this particular strip a comical element some of the more serious strips missed.
There remains just one question based on panel three. Does our Pomeranian still see the fourth dog? She acts as if she is in contact with the other character. Again, these last few strips have brought Lady Cecelia's mental state into question. Note how Lady Dolores uses the word "touched," which can also indicate a lack of maturity and mental stability.
Both Annabelle and Cecelia have seen something. Dolores is still befuddled. What I'm wondering is the identity of this apparition, and I don't mean who. Just because Lady Annabelle see a dog, doesn't mean this character is a dog. If the ring somehow connects the wearer with another via a form of telepathy, what we might be seeing is that character's perception.
Annabelle saw a scholar, which makes sense since she is the brains of the trio. Cecelia saw a knight since her size and mental weakness needs a protector. I'm wondering what Dolores would see. No doubt some character that resembles a weightlifter on steriods, or a diplomat with a glib tongue.
If another character picked it up, say the mouse at the fair, would he see a mouse?
Speak Up:
Lady Dolores just got a surprise, as well as this reader. Lady Cecelia has a bit of a bark. It will take a few more strips to determine if she also has any bite. Lady Annabelle's reply in the last panel still has me wondering if "Sissy" is so passive and demented that she finds this snappish attitude something of a passing thing. A nice touch having Lady Dolores counting her fingers in that last panel. One error here, Lady Dolores is counting the fingers of her right hand in panel five, but pulls back her left hand in panel four.
I'm still not convinced that Lady Cecelia can become a strong character. Though she snaps at the one lady, her expression in panel four reflects contrision. A firmer look, or glare, might have convinced me she can exert some power. Right now, she reminds me of a child who disrespected their parents and just realized their mistake.
A Gift of the Humans :
Now this sounds like a logical explanation. The ring has some technological connection, and is also a symbol of authority. This does start a bit of a mystery. In order for the rings to work, two must be used. Who, or what, has the other ring? Even more interesting, will the other morph races acknowledge its power after so long an absense? I'm surprised Lady Annabelle didn't recognize the talisman, since she is the intellectual of the three.
One other important question: How many rings are there? We are shown seven. (From left to right - elk, dog, rat, cat, fox, boar, and wolf.) What about the other races revealed as of this date? (Sheep, bear, ferret, hare, mouse, and racoon.) If these races do not have such a talisman, I can think of one possible reason why the morphs experienced a dark age. This would make these rings one of the greatest dangers to the morph races.
Go and Stop :
It appears our writers anticipated this need to have a spine implanted for Lady Cecelia. The one thing I'm wondering is if this is so out of her character that the others will wonder what possesses her. All the evidence of Lady Cecelia's past points to a demented, but lovable, character. How does she suddenly transform into a dominent force?
The last three strips makes me think the lady's powers are not natural. She might well be under the influence of the ring. That is, the ring controls her, not the other way around. Whoever sent or created the vision has gained control of Lady Cecelia. It would go a long way to explaining Lady Dolores's response in the earlier strip when confronted by the little one.
The two ladies seemed to be dominated by her commands in spite of their desire to do the opposite. By control, I refer to panel three where both ladies stopped. This is a physical reaction that shouldn't be possible given the personalities of the two. The artist should be commended for the expressions in those last two panels.
I'll be curious to see how the apparent dilema is resolved. A temporary halt is understandable due to the shock of her unexpected actions. However, Lady Dolores has indicated her response was contrary to her desire. If these two remain pliant, I'm hoping the explanation is not magic. Something to resolve at a later point in the adventure.
The Poodle Votes No:
Now this is an interesting situation. I'm thinking Lady Annabelle is not use to playing second to anyone. Her earlier attempt at covering her submission was an attempt at saving face. Lady Dolores negated that when she admitted she wanted to do something else.
The explanation of the ring having some technological control over others makes this ring the most dangerous piece of human technology. I'm thinking it caused the dark ages and might have caused the downfall of their earlier existence. The other rings are not missing, I'm thinking wiser minds among the morphs destroyed them.
Already we have rebellion in the ranks. Lady Annabelle cannot imagine Lady Cecelia as a leader. Based on earlier strips, it again raises the question about "Sissy's" mental status. Thing is, there is a deciding vote yet to be cast, and I'm not sure if Lady Dolores will side with our poodle.
One question: Has anyone remembered the time constraint?
A note to the artist: The third panel is the first time I've seen Lady Dolores as feminine. All the earlier poses had me thinking a female who preferred the rough and tumble of a good fight and not the dignity of a high court. Yes, I recall her prior look as a proper lady, but that might be more show than fact.
No magic in Inherit the Earth. Although Clarke's Law may apply: Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.
Good knowing our authors have read some of the better classic sci-fi authors. I agree, technology can be mistaken as magic when its principles are not understood by those affected. Though I don't see how a ring can control others not wearing it, the communication link sounds like an extention of the cell phone idea. Yet the idea of such powers isn't too outlandish, based on the history Lady Dolores gave.
Somebody discovered the ring, and has a less than honorable reason for giving it to Lady Cecelia. Otherwise, the gift of the ring would be overt. It cannot bode well for Lady Cecelia, or the dog kingdom. She did not find the ring by "accident," or through theft while at the fair. The mystery is who controls the ring and why.
Everything in Threes:
There is something amiss about this. Whoever is setting up these three challenges must be expecting a gain, but like any con artist, has Lady Cecelia convinced she is the one who will benefit. Her continual reference to the knight confirms my earlier suspision that whatever she sees isn't real. Somebody better figure out who really comes out winners should she be successfull.
A special compliment to our artist. The first panel has Lady Cecelia angry, and like any small child, stamping her foot to emphasize that emotion. The second panel has her stary-eyed, the wistfull look of a person awaiting a special gift. The third panel has her in a snooty, haughtier than thou look. The final panel has Lady Annabelle confused. Excellent work there.
Silent Testimony:
Just my opinion, but I do believe this an error. We are shown what Lady Cecelia is seeing. However, the vision doesn't correspond with her dialogue. Since the castle is medievil, I'm thinking Prince has seen pictures of that era, which would include the knights. His harem would have access to such research materials. The vision has no such connection to his alleged status. There is no logical connection between a scholar and an armoured warrior.
It will be interesting to see how the dogs in this society establish Alpha status. If it is via combat, which is how it is done in the wild, either of the other two could turn her into a ragdoll. Something tells me their morph status has refined the process.
I'm curious about the artist's medium. Is this a computer graphic or a scanned picture? If it is scanned, is the original in chalk or pastels?
See Sissy run. Run, Sissy, Run.:
Interesting how neither of the other two ladies have caught the scent of whatever "Sissy" detected. Would love to know what Lady Annabelle intended to say before the interruption. If Lady Cecelia can outrace the other two, it must be the constrictive garments the other two ladies wear.
My mind kept thinking "fools rush in where angels fear to tred." Whatever this knight wants, it must involve a great deal of danger. It cannot be something simple if the eventual outcome is becoming a powerful leader. That Lady Cecelia dashes off without thinking of the consequences again highlights either her mental ineptness or how easy others can manipulate her.
The first panel had me laugh. I know it is the perspective, but the puff on Lady Annabelle's tail made me think Lady Cecelia had somehow changed head gear. The second panel, with the lighter color of the fur, gives the impression of a lion's mane.
Utmost Importance:
This strip shows the pecking order in the harem. Lady Annabelle commands and the bottom rung is Lady Cecelia. Apparently her importance is so low that Sissy is seen by the others as nothing more than comic relief, which explains why others manipulate her without thinking. Nice seeing that Lady Dolores isn't one to follow directions without some reason.
Word for a Leader:
Good try, Lady Annabelle, but I do think Lady Dolores wants an answer. If nothing else, this strip gives us a glimpse into the pecking order within the harem. Lady Annabelle might be the leader, but her grasp is not absolute. Lady Dolores is too aggressive to be dominated, or dismissed through a simple distraction.
Regarding the artwork, I'm most impressed with the artist's facial expressions. One can sense the anger in Lady Dolores when she is balked. Lady Annabelle's worry and determination are evident in the second and third panels. I'm wondering if our poodle realizes whatever quest this knight set for Lady Cecelia could end in her death.
Blood of Chiefs:
It seems Lady Annabelle has made a fundamental mistake. Either that or the authors are playing the magician and distracting us. If you read that final panel, nothing there is definative. The fact that the invisible guest tells Lady Cecelia she has the blood of ancient chiefs in her veins doesn't make it truth. It may provide the means of convincing somebody to do some task they would never perform.
This does raise the question of what happened to the original line of rulers. If Prince has a direct lineage to these same chiefs, then the unknown spirit lied. If Lady Cecelia has the direct lineage, then somewhere in the not so distant past, Prince usurped their power. Given Prince's previous image, such a change in power didn't come peacefully.
As to the front panel, I'll agree that it deserves a larger version. Must be my computer display as all I see is that tiny red x in the upper left corner of a huge blank space. Will check later and hope I can see it.
The missing image is my fault. It is fixed now.
On to your comments about the strip: You have correctly deduced some things. I'm not saying which though...
Quote from: WyrmMaster on Jan 05, 2012, 05:03 PM
The missing image is my fault. It is fixed now.
On to your comments about the strip: You have correctly deduced some things. I'm not saying which though...
Spoilsport.
At least the old hedgehog nailed something. I'll have to wait and see.
Congratulations on another milestone. Liked the way you included the number in the first panel of the strip.
Thanks.
I'm glad someone notices the number ^_^
Got to see the enlarged picture. Most impressive and I can understand the need to enlarge.
At least now I understand why the vision didn't change when we saw it via Lady Cecelia's perspective. It would prove difficult offering a character sketch if everyone saw something geared to them. It makes me wonder if the other person is using a projected image, or if the person wearing the second ring is the dog pictured.
Thought I would wait until the Ides of March before posting. Seems only right since the story centers around a character who wishes to become royalty. As the story progresses, some of the comments made at the time of posting are no longer valid.
Worries:
As I've said earlier, Lady Annabelle is the brains of this trio. I do think she has an idea where this quest is going and sees the dangers Sissy doesn't recognize. Lady Dolores is a bit slower catching onto the danger, but understands there is something amiss.
Just out of curiousity, is this strip a blooper? Lady Cecilia is shown disappearing down a path, which is clear. The two ladies appear to be chasing her through an overgrown forest. A bit of an inconsistency from the final panel of the strip dated 12/22/2011.
The End Is In Sight :
Considering the high grass, perhaps Sissy is disoriented. It does make you wonder which place was her initial objective. The Sanctuary might be logical, but I'm thinking that a too obvious location. Going there would entail revealing the Sanctuary's most guarded secret, there is no longer an Orb. The town offers an opportunity for a clandestine meeting.
I'm wondering if Lady Annabelle's removal or destruction of her garments could cause troubles. This is a social culture where garments are required. When the three reach town, their attire, or lack thereof, should cause problems. Wonder how Annabelle will handle inquiries regarding her safety by whatever passes as the law for that town. Must be watching too many westerns, but I'm imagining a sheriff swaggering down the street, like John Wayne, determined to be the hero to the three ladies.
Two problems I see with the town. The appearance of Prince's harem would cause a lot of gossip. Notables stopping at a town draws lots of notice. The second concern would center on why there and not a high profile location, Sanctuary. There might be a third one regarding consistency if this town is mentioned either in the game or the previous story, though it would be nice seeing Sandy again.
Down on the Farm :
It appears our two ladies tried cutting the third one off by using the path, which was not the direct route. In their haste, they have missed her. They don't know if she is somewhere in the field, in the town, or going somewhere else. I did enjoy the retorical question and answer in the last panel. Since help is needed, enter the local villager.
The second panel might be descriptive, but I do wonder if such information is necessary. If one combines the previous strip, Lady Dolores might have a better idea where Lady Cecilia went, or from which direction she will appear.
I'm curious regarding Lady Dolores. She holds her paws in an unnatural position in the last two panels. I cannot tell if she is handicapped, injured, or this is some manifestation of the artist. Even her expression reflects pain rather than exhaustion from a brisk run.
Grasp of the Obvious :
The hare has become the innocent bystander who gets crushed in any confrontation. He is protecting Lady Cecilia for some reason, which suggests she spun a great story in the short time since her arrival. I'm thinking the hare recognizes the others, since his expression in the second panel shows distress.
Lady Cecilia's actions are contrary to her goals. For a character that anticipates holding a position of leadership, she comes across as a coward. Since she possesses a powerful weapon against the others, she should be asserting her dominance, not hiding like a child from angered parents. Regarding the ring of power, Sissy wore it on her left paw. (Strip dated 11/10/11) The ring isn't there now. Where is it?
Level One Complete :
Sorry, I don't think so. As Lady Annabelle pointed out, she caught a morph hare. If Sissy spoke true, her task was to catch a rabbit. There is a big difference between the two and one cannot exchange them. It will be interesting to see if this knight accepts Lady Cecilia's interpritation. This is too simple a task if the ultimate goal is to become a leader. Makes me wonder if the knight's final challenge will be a real killer, or our midget mutt is in for a huge disappointment when all is done.
Lady Dolores seems pleased that the hare holds no animosity. She shouldn't. Lady Cecilia could have gnawed his foot off and he would smile. Sissy has the privelleges of rank and I'm guessing the hare recognizes Lady Annabelle as part of Prince's harem. The hare's value is less than the dirt he stands on, while the dogs are members of nobility. In such a situation, and in a feudal culture, the ladies remain untouchable.
Meet Russtip :
Should be an interesting combination, dogs and hares working together. I'm guessing the variation of the names is intended to hide their status as members of Prince's harem, which contradicts my impression from last week's strip. Nice bit of a diplomatic sidestep in the last panel, though once again Sissy is depicted as an immature child of dubious mental abilities.
Does the hare's name have any meaning behind it?
Maybe You Should Get Use to It :
Lady Dolores is showing some smarts here. She is attempting to keep their identities secret, though I'm wondering how effective that will be. They were recognized at the fair, is it possible that Russtip knows their identities and is playing along with the deception? One doesn't want to tick off those in power and Prince doesn't sound like he is the most benevolent king. The hare might consider it safer acting as if he doesn't know them.
Speaking of hare, has anyone forgotten an important fact? Russtip is a hare, not a rabbit. Unless this knight confirms Sissy's interpritation, she hasn't finished the first quest.
As to Lady Annabelle's comment, it seems to infer Sissy isn't much of a dog either. The comment infers her sense of smell is poor and her hunting abilities worthless. Lady Dolores confirms this hypothisis with her one-word comment in the fourth panel.
Well Slightly Necessary :
Our family has a saying that fits this strip. Beware of anyone saying "but," as that one word has a way of biting you in the butt. I'm thinking Russtip is about to send them on an adventure, while calling it a favor. Lady Dolores agreeing so fast has me thinking she is agreeing just to give them an excuse to leave and has no intention of performing whatever task Russtip requires.
The Hare's Business :
The task sounds so simple. If the trip takes the ladies closer to home, it makes sense to offer the assistance. However, if this is taking the trio further from the castle, they should refuse or defer. Call me crazy if you wish, but the wording of that last panel has me confused. Is this other morph Rosstip's mate or his customer. I'm getting two interpritations, depending on how I read this.
On a side note, is Rosstip wearing glasses? If so, how do they stay on his muzzle?
A Need for a Flexable Agenda :
The double meaning of the conversation in panel three will be a bit of a tease for next week. The reader doesn't know if Sissy is speaking to her invisible knight or replying to Lady Dolores. I'm thinking it partially the artwork, but Lady Dolores appears to be at the end of her proverbial rope.
Some comments on your latest summary:
The End Is In Sight: Every Morph of importance knows the Orb of Storms is missing.
(On a side note, almost no one outside the Ferret tribe knows about the Orb of Hands (http://inherittheearth.net/comic.shtml?0009)!)
Level One Complete: Maybe the Shining Knight actually said "hare," but Sissy prefers the word "rabbit." Or not.
Meet Russtip: "Russet-Tip," as in his ears.
The Hare's Business: The "Morph" that Dolores is referring to is Russtip's customer. I may redo the dialogue.
And, yes, Russtip is wearing some kind of glasses. Since glasses are hand-made (and a relatively new technology), the pair is probably designed specifically to fit Russtip's face.
Quote from: WyrmMaster on Mar 16, 2012, 04:23 PM
Some comments on your latest summary:
The End Is In Sight: Every Morph of importance knows the Orb of Storms is missing.
(On a side note, almost no one outside the Ferret tribe knows about the Orb of Hands (http://inherittheearth.net/comic.shtml?0009)!)
Now that is interesting. Every morph of power, or authority, knows the Orb of Storms is missing. I might be oblivious to the obvious, but why would anyone of intelligence serve a useless leader like Elara? Without the Orb of Storms, she can no longer extort favors or tribute. Why doesn't somebody raid her sanctuary and steal whatever wealth is available? Such things happened in Medievil Europe whenever the religious lost their influence. If nothing else, killing or capturing Elara would satisfy their need for vengence.
A Short Quip:
The third panel is priceless. The picture said far more than any amount of dialogue could ever convey. I'm not sure which of the two characters is the more upset. And Lady Dolores is correct; Lady Annabelle made a great recovery.
Candy Is Dandy:
This should be a problem. If it is getting too dark for travel, then Prince will miss his harem.
Lady Cecilia's reaction could either be frustration or childishness. I'm not sure which. It is too bad they are going to the bear's home. Returning to the fair might offer more insight as to where and how our lady got her ring.
Can You Spare a Cabin?:
It is official, the ladies should be in the deep with Prince. Unless somebody forgot to mention how long his hunting expedition was going to run, the harem ladies are overdue. I'm wondering if that is the reason for Lady Dolores's less than enthusiastic attitude.
Let Sleepy Dogs Lie Down:
Looks like nobody wants to discuss anything important. Sissy isn't going to talk about her knight. Annabelle isn't going to discuss the quest, and Lady Dolores remains outside the loop. This is more of an interlude strip, an intermission if you will, before anything happens. How many noticed the mirror style for the dialogue in the first and fourth panel?
I think you previously mentioned that you hadn't played the Inherit the Earth: Quest for the Orb. So, here's some background:
During the game ,you learn that Elara is a good friend of the Forrest King (an Elk). The Elks are one of the three "military" tribes in the Known Lands (along with the Boars and the Dogs). Antagonizing the Elks by attacking the Sanctuary would be a very bad idea!
You might ask why the Boars or Dogs wouldn't do such a thing. The Boar King prefers the current détente with the Elks. On the other hand. the Dog tribe in very insular, and Prince prefers to just charge tolls to other Morph for easy access to the north -- or get paid to keep someone from traveling to the north!
You are right, I have not played the game.
So that begs the question why the Elk Tribe allows the sanctuary to continue. Friendship goes just so far, especially if the Elk king felt he received less than full value for some weather related favor. Elara has been reduced from a formitable power to court jester, but she is also rich and powerless. Such a combination does not bode well for the Sanctuary.
That explains the reaction Prince had when Rhene delivered Elara's message in the previous adventure. I thought it a morph-racial thing, (dog versus cat), now I understand how Prince could perceive it as an insult or challenge to his authority. It would be like some guttersnipe telling the US President what he must do, and expecting his compliance.
The Crux of the Matter:
Well, this is an interesting installment. Lady Dolores proves she isn't the all brawn and no brains portion of our trio. She can ask a pointed question. Though I do find her inquiry one that needs an interpritation to answer. Prince is indeed the alpha, which is the leader of the dog tribe. However, he is not an alpha, a direct descendent of those given the rings of power.
I'll be curious if either ladies investigate the follow-up question, what happened to the dog who should be sitting on the throne. Can anyone say "revolution?" It cannot be a natural death, otherwise Sissy couldn't use the ring for anything beyond an adornment. I'm curious about the wolf ring from the previous story. Could that be a power ring given to the wolves? Another question, who knew Sissy's bloodline? So many questions.
The Start of a Tale:
If the picture is any indication, I'm thinking my first guess is correct. There was a change in leadership that did not come about peacefully. I had to laugh at the comment made by Lady Dolores. She sees nothing odd about the name Prince, which is a rank of royalty, but does find Duke strange.
Annabelle's Tale Continues:
There is an old saying that applies here. The victorious write history. If there is any truth to the story, only an Alpha can use the ring. It would support this version of past events. However, neither of the other ladies have worn the talisman. For all we know, the ring works for anyone wearing it. The final comment by Lady Dolores seems like an attempt at levity. Not sure it worked.
Questionable Succession:
The thing I'm finding amusing about this is Lady Dolores. She doesn't seem too upset or concerned. As I remember from the prior story, Prince might lead, but the harem rules. Her reaction makes me wonder if she knows more than Annabelle and is playing dumb for her own reasons. This story does seem to hint at some future political intrigue.
Connections:
And today we get the final piece to the puzzle. Of course Lady Annabelle does call the story conjecture as nothing is verified. Now a quick question. How many noticed the breeds of dog in the second pane? Take a close look at the female who is third from the right.
I only have one comment for now as anything else I could say would involve spoilers.
As it has been noted in the game and some other places (http://inherittheearth.net/characters.html), "Prince" is the Dog Tribe leader's name, not his title. So, the "Duke" comment makes more sense in that context.
My comment about the names was just that, a reference to the names. I just noted the similarity in their secondary definition, a rank of royalty. I'll give your creative team a tip of the old fedora for that idea, it worked like a charm.
I'm Sure That Can Wait:
At least now our pooch has let the proverbial cat out of the bag. I must admit I never considered this angle, the possibility of a civil war. Dolores is either in denial about the civic dynamics regarding the ring and what it represents, or has withheld information she alone might have about the two brothers. I'm wondering if Dolores is, as I originally thought, long on brawn and short on savy.
One question regarding the artwork. Is it my monitor or does Annabelle's fur have a very definative greenish hue?
Should Have Expected That:
One thing you have to say about Lady Dolores, she is direct. So next week we might be treated to some answers regarding the former contender for the dog throne. Don't know if it is true, but when I was in grade school, the nuns always said there was a second line to that old saying: curiousity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought him back.
Quote from: cairn destop on Jun 14, 2012, 05:29 AM
I'm wondering if Dolores is, as I originally thought, long on brawn and short on savvy.
One question regarding the artwork. Is it my monitor or does Annabelle's fur have a very definitive greenish hue?
If Dolores had let Annabelle ask her question, you might have gotten an answer about Dolores' knowledge. Now you'll just have to wait until later :mellow:
I think the recent greenish tinge is related to the lighting from the campfire.
Its the Thought that Counts:
So now Lady Dolores has been granted a vision of the shining knight. I do wonder if this is an error since Lady Annabelle had to come into physical contact with the ring before she saw it. Of course it could also be a proximety thing, a closeness to the one wearing the ring. It might also be reacting to the perceived threat Lady Dolores represents.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again. This ring is as dangerous as the one Bilbo Baggins found. The other leaders gifted it were wise indeed when they destroyed the rings.
Rules for Ruling:
I do love the way our Knight avoided the real question. Though, in his defense, the question from Lady Dolores remains vague. It will get interesting if Lady Dolores points out her failure in the initial test. His answer could be most revealing. Again, the conversation has two interpritations.
Objections From Dolores:
Wonder if Dolores has asperations of her own regarding the crown. Being one of three in a harem might be nice, but top dog might be better. Makes you wonder how far her ambitions go. Do like the way the knight cuts to the heart of the matter. But his answer has two interpritations. So which is right, do they want Lady Cecilia as the new alpha, or do they want Prince off the throne. By "they," I mean whoever the knight represents. And I'm wondering if Lady Dolores caught that double meaning.
Rude Awakening:
So who is in command? Does Lady Cecilia command the ring, or does the ring control her? I do love the expression in the last panel. Didn't think you could portray so much surprise.
Hope for 'Go Fly a Kite':
I'm feeling vindicated. Lady Annabelle has discovered the reason why the ring may have been lost in the first place. It is far too dangerous a thing.
Confidence Game:
It looks as if Lady Annabelle has something planned. Since nobody yet knows what the second task is, I can think of just one possible reason. Perhaps theft of the ring. Cute how Lady Cecilia takes the positive approach.
You ever get the feeling you're just spitting into the wind? Feels like it now. All these strips and nobody willing to add their views or comments? Heck, at least let the authors and artist know how this colorized version compares to the earlier one. I'm beginning to think I should try imitating a Simon and Garfunkle hit - The Sound of Silence. It generates no interest in the strip. For all I know, I'm the only reader.
Delivery Instructions:
If Lady Cecilia turns this delivery task into one of her three quests, I'm going to be certain that this girl's oars are not all in the water. I do wonder what the others are planning.
Oh My! The Language!:
Tis not the language that fascinates, it's the inference. I find it funny that dogs would consider that word bad. So be it. I'm wondering if Lady Annabelle is thinking like me, that somebody is controling the ring and directing an immature Lady Cecilia on a task for them, not her.
Bar the Bridge:
Sounds like a variation of "head 'em off at the pass" to me. So far, Dolores hasn't come up with a plan, she's just stating the obvious. To call that devious is humorous as a reader, an an insult from our poodle.
Narf:
Must be an inside joke as I have no idea what Narf is or means. Did have a good laugh at the last panel and the idea of rabid badgers. Kept me thinking of the Redwall bloodwrath badgers and that internet cartoon "Badger ... Badger ... Badger"
Well, we certainly appreciate
your contributions, Mr. Destop. I wish that we could do something to show our appreciation. Believe it or not, I do read them all, (you might notice that Belle's hair is slightly less green tinted now ^_^) though I'm often afraid to make comments on the story in case I give away too much. I try and leave that to the captain. But I do really appreciate the comments and critiques on the art portion of the script and apologize for not actually responding to them in the forum. I will do better from now on!
Narf, I believe, is a reference to Pinky and the Brain, a cartoon from the nineties about two mice who constantly develop plans to take over the world. One is a deadpan genius and the other is gentlehearted but insane (he likes to say <<Narf>>). A common skit between them would involve the Brain beginning with the line <<Are you pondering what I'm pondering?>> and Pinky would respond with a <<Yes, but...>> and fill in something completely irrelevant, pretty much what just played out in the current strip.
<<Pinky! Are you pondering what I'm pondering?>>
<<I think so, Brain, but me and Pippi Longstocking... I mean, what would the children look like?>>
To be honest, I'm thinking Lady Annabelle's dirty blond coloration is a marked improvement over the story's first strip, #285, where she is the typical all-white poodle. Don't know if that's intentional or a recent change, but I sure like it. Wonder how many others noticed the shift in coloring.
Lessons From Her Youth:
I do remember the reference to the wild lands from the prior story, though including the link was a wise idea. It's a nice bit of continuity. As our poodle said in the prior strip, they only have to make the bridge seem impassible.
Lady Dolores seems a bit upset. Maybe she saw herself as the leader in this operation. Perhaps a bit of the pack mentality remains and she is trying to assert her dominance.
I always did these reviews as a means to encourage oppossing views, to spark discussions and to attract readers. It appears my efforts have had the exact opposite reaction from those visiting the site. Therefore, I'm thinking it might be best to cease my reviews.
Oh the Humanity:
If I remember correctly, that is a line from the news reel regarding the Hindenburg Disaster. Not sure if there is any connection other than the anticipated fire and possibly a disaster if things don't go as Lady Annabelle planned.
Now Lady Dolores makes a comment I can interpret in two different ways. One has her saying she knows of a possible survivor colony of humans. That would be a fascinating twist to this series.
The second interpritation is far scarier. There is a growing or existing religion among the morphs. Apparently this religion has as its central tenet the return of humans. Considering how deadly religion has been to human history, it makes you wonder if the morphs are jumping off that same cliff.
A Mother's Tale:
Lady Dolores looks too old to be a child (pup) in that first panel, though I do like the style and fashion of the mother. Can you say same story but different endings? I'm thinking this similar to the tales parents tell their children when they send the family pet to the pound. (Be honest, how many parents told their kids the family pet was going to a farm,) I'll reserve my thoughts about the validity of such stories. Note, I'm not saying either one fibbed.
No doubt when somebody "went away" in the wildlands, it was a kinder way of telling a child they died, hence Lady Annabelle's interpritation. Lady Dolores grew up in a refined, civilized location. Thus a parent saying "went away," implies they went somewhere else, but maybe the parent was shielding the kid from a reality they could not accept. Have to wait for the next installment.
Based on the lack of comments since my last posting, I was correct. The commentary was indeed counterproductive.
I wouldn't say the commentary is counterproductive. The lack of comments to posts does not imply disinterest or disdain.
For example, Castlevania RPG (CVRPG) gets only a couple comments a month. Dan and Mab's Furry Adventures (DMFA), which shares the same forum as CVRPG, receives dozens of comments per strip. It's just the nature of the different fans of each strip.
Just letting you know I'm still following the strip and finding it worth following. I do wonder about some of the artwork. Though I have no such skills, there does seem to be a merging of drawings and photoshop inserts. The goats in several of the strips are prime examples. They have the appearance of being inserted into the artwork instead of being part of the art. Very clever.
Lots of riddles to resolve in this storyline. Unlike the previous one that had a rather straightforward one, this has more intrigue. My overall impression is that somebody is seeking political instability among the dogs. The question then becomes who is likely to benefit from such discord.
Possible culprits:
1 --- the high priestess -- she has been turned into a powerless kitten with the loss of the Orb. Becoming kingmaker could allow her a measure of power.
2 --- the boars -- they and the dogs are in an uneasy truce. An unstable dog kingdom would allow them to conquer both the dogs and the priestess.
3 --- another dog -- nothing like a trusted advisor seeking a promotion via the blade in the back.
4 --- the wolves -- the prior storyline suggested political unrest and a secret meeting, this might be step two.
5 --- our "deceased" raccoon, or his associate -- there is nothing spirit with this ghost, it is technology. The raccoons might have a means of conquering the dogs from within via an inept leader.
6 --- an unknown wildland faction -- we have tales of the wildlands, but nothing factual. Perhaps they intend going mainstream by evicting the dogs. Remember, the castle acts like a gate to the wildlands, and a gate keeps things in or out, dependent on your perspective.
Good eye. Actually, the goats, beams and grass are digitally painted, but I've taken to taking pictures with my new camera for certain parts of the backgrounds (there are quite a few attractive places where I live). Just experimenting. ^_^
Don't worry, sir! Have faith in the lurkers.
Enjoy the convention. Perhaps one time it will be close enough to consider attending. In the meantime, just saying I'm still following the story.
Congratulations on today's milestone. Looking forward to the rest.
Quote from: cairn destop on Jul 12, 2013, 05:27 AM
Congratulations on today's milestone. Looking forward to the rest.
Thanks!
I'm guessing that today's post is the final installment in this story. Curious to know if you are planning another story in the near future.
There will be a post on Thursday with all the answers. All of them.
OK, not all of them, but a Homestuck (http://www.mspaintadventures.com/?s=6&p=003976) shout-out seemed appropriate.
Yeah, I know it's been a long time. Still, had to extend a word of appreciation to our former artist. Your work will be missed.