Whores!

So every now and then I take a stroll over to Comicraft to check out their selection and pricing structure. I do this basically to remind myself that they're not worth it. Nice though Starkings' typefaces are, the fonts over at Blambot are cheaper by an order of magnitude (or, in many cases, infinity, being free), and easily comparable in quality. Perhaps one day I shall splash out on one of their lavish $20 professional fonts but I don't see myself ever paying the equivalent $200 to line Comicraft's pockets. Which is fair enough, they're really aimed at megacorporations rather than the part-time artist.

Angel was good, it gave Lorne a nice meaty bit of acting to do. It managed to do that thing where it's funny while still being serious - the events themselves are comical, but at the same time you know there are deadly serious consequences on the way. Good bits: The plot was on plain show, but disguised as throwaway gags and one-liners until the Big Reveal; Spike's spectral status was not mentioned throughout the show (since it wasn't necessary to the plot); Evil Lord [Whatsisname], who was superbly malevolent yet actually quite believable as a desirable party guest; no pointless "Previously..." at the start of the episode.

Have managed to check another box on the Ultimate LiveJournal Obsession Test: I have now "Had a friend do something embarassing and immediately say, 'Um, you're not gonna write about that, are you?'". Hmmm, I think I have now also "Used a post to exhort people to friend one of your friends?" (ripley_the_cat) and "Tried to remember something witty that someone said so that you could immediately commit it to LJ fame?" and ... Actually, maybe I should retake that test, I suspect some categories may have gone up considerably since the last time I took it, way back in September. But I was only two months in, then ... how time flies.

LJ Analysis: Retest

( results )

Also: ( Hedonism Bot! )

FROTH FROTH FROTH + consumer difficulties

Apparently Maelstrom mailshot has started to arrive. I can only wonder if mine has reached Ilkley yet. Meanwhile the Bahadhu mailing list (for Clan Anaguma and associates) has exploded with activity, as has the Pagga.net forum.

Something I'm picking up from the references to Eidolons is that they are not the new name for Demons - that's Fallen Eidolons. Which means Eidolons are ... Heh. Given one of the inspirations for my costume (the guy in the middle), maybe an Eidolon would be a suitably punny choice of character.

No commitments until I've read the rules, now, but it would be kind of cool. It would also explain why I'm dressed Chinese while everybody else is dressed Japanese... As long as it's not toooo cheeesy.

Addendum: Package arrived from Playwell containing 2 pairs Kung-Fu pants (one pair straight-leg, one pair gathered) as well as Ninja Belt, Zorri Sandals and Tabi Socks. Not sure about the socks - the stiff sole makes them a bit uncomfortable, and the camel toe is not quite long enough for the sandal toe-divider to fit into properly. May have to go barefoot. The Ninja Belt is nice, but very modern materials - it'll have to either go under the jacket or wait for Waypoint (for which it will Do Nicely, Thank You).

On examining the website, I may well have ordered the wrong size Tabi - on account of the radio button for "44" being on a different line from the number "44". ... On further examination I think I was trying to order 43, as my shoes are usually size 9 or therabouts. Oh, such confusion. I wonder if they do returns, I shall consult with them.

Update: Yes, they are happy to exchange. Now I will have to try them out and see if I want to.

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Joy to the world!

One word is whispered upon the lips of the faithful and the unconverted alike: Maelstrom.

So I've got my rules pack and am watching the vi-DEY-o as I type. Most informative, ham acting aside. (Not that I am in any position to criticise - better than I could pull off, I am sure. Huzzahs all round, stalwart chaps and chapettes!) Rulebook is clear, concise and beautiful. "Key Concepts" sidebars are helpful, dragging together pertinent points from other parts of the book and also summarizing important information. You would not know that six months ago this system was nothing more than a glimmer in certain eyeballs.

But do not be afraid. All that has transpired is steered by the hand of the Teacher, according to His plan. Even the cheesy rock music.

ADDITIONAL: I am Maelstrom's first pinup! I seriously fell in love with that coat.