Character of the Week: Alexander!

 Hello! I'm Alexander Clark, it's a pleasure to meet you all. 

I was born near London in 1833. I honestly don't remember much of my childhood, except that my parents were always inviting the Owens over to visit. My mum and dad died when I was 20. I believe that might have contributed to my recklessness. 

When I was 22 I attempted to summon a demon, Stolas.  Charles tried to stop me, but I refused to listen to his logic and instead convinced him to stay and watch. I was too cocky in my dealings with the demon and as punishment, Stolas began to mess with our lives.

Charles again tried to convince me not to meddle, but I found a book Stolas left in my study and just couldn't help myself. It was almost a year after my failed summons that I tried out the first thing in the book - a potion to shift oneself into a wolf. The first time I tried it, I killed a messenger I had sent to warn Charles and almost attacked Charles, who had once again come to save me from my foolishness. Luckily the potion wore off, and I again swore off meddling.

What I didn't realize was that the potion was semi-permanent. I am in essence a werewolf now. I am forced to change into a wolf on every full moon. However, should I need to become a wolf, say to protect myself, I can drink the potion and transform. 

Since my first full moon transformation, Charles and I have been traveling. I'd say our most interesting adventure was when we immigrated to the US. I had to bribe the customs officer to not look in the conspicuously body sized box that contained Charles. That was also the end of our family's old money and since then I have done whatever odd jobs I can find.

Charles and I now own a lovely little cottage out in the country, even though we don't live there. We only go there the night before the full moon so that I can transform away from most people.

Almost everyday I regret summoning Stolas. One moment of weakness has led to an immortal lifetime of regret. 

So what mistake do you regret the most? What one moment of your life would you change? How has it affected your life?

Character of the Week: Nutmeg!

Welcome to Come In Character, Nutmeg. Please tell us about yourself...

Hello, everyone! My name is Nutmeg Cross. I was born seventeen years ago in the piney woods of southern Mississippi, where my father, Thomas, runs a vision quest camp for troubled teenagers.

Nutmeg is an usual name, I know. My folks named me that because, well, they were hippies, see, and apparently, nutmeg can be a rather toxic hallucinogen. My dad never admitted whether he and my mom used it or not... guess it can be really dangerous. But Mom liked the name, so there you go.

My family and friends just call me Meg. Less weird, I guess.

Anyway, my mom left when I was just a toddler, so my dad had to raise me on his own – which I don’t think was terribly easy for him. Over the years, he never talked about my mom. Eventually, he met and married a nice woman named Billie Appleton, and five years ago, they had a kid – my half-brother Jonathan. After a while, I realized that I didn’t really fit in the family snapshot. In fact, Dad and I have never gotten along. I always found it strange that he took so much time helping out other people’s kids, but never seemed to notice that I needed some help, too. For one thing, I don’t think I’ve ever quite accepted my mother’s disappearance – and my father’s unwillingness to figure it out.

Don’t get me wrong. I loved growing up in the country, learning about Native American traditions (like red roads and teepee councils and medicine wheels), and meeting the people that came to my father’s land. I felt at home in nature, and I was happy to be home-schooled up until my high school years. But, still, something was always missing for me. So, several months ago, I hit the road – in search of my real mother. Maybe I was too young to set out on my own, but I was sick of waiting for answers.

Along the way, I met Indigo Cypress – an amazing, resourceful, full-blooded Cherokee with a talent for tracking, living off the land, and surviving in the wilderness. When we met out west, he was living on a reservation with his siblings – and he was ready to hit the road, too.

I’m so grateful that we met. It was lonely, scary, and fairly dangerous traveling by myself – and Indy and I get along so well. He doesn’t even mind helping me find my mother, going from clue to clue – no matter how disheartening the search seems at times. Guess you could say he’s my first love - and my own personal dreamcatcher.

So, that's my story – in a nutshell, so to speak.

Well, what about you? How far would you go to find someone?

Character of the Week: Amy!

Hello everyone. My name is Amy Thompson, and I’m very nervous about introducing myself. Though I have the honor of being the main character in a trilogy, I am most comfortable in obscurity.

I grew up in the small, Northern California town of Oroville. My father was a functioning, abusive alcoholic; my mother a shy, beaten woman who spent all her energy surviving her marriage and had nothing to give her two children. I survived my childhood by hiding and keeping my mouth shut at all costs; my brother succumbed to our father’s method of coping - booze and violence.

On my eighteenth birthday I found my mother lying dead at the foot of the stairs, and as I left my home for the last time, I vowed I wouldn’t end up with my mother’s fate. I closed the doors on my childhood, and everyone who hurt me.

My story is journey of self discovery.

To avoid the fate of my mother - a life of fear lived and ended at the whim of an alcoholic - I first had to journey in her shoes, and make my own choices about love, and loyalty. Had either of my great loves been the abusive monster I remembered my father to be, the choice to leave would have been easy.

First there was Robert Crane; impulsive, romantic, devoted to his family and religious beliefs. More boy than man; with a multitude of fears and insecurities. Watching his alcoholism develop, I was able to see how my mother could have lived with such a brute as my father. Love supersedes logic; until it is too late for choice.

Then I met my soul mate: his best friend Calvin Mertz. Over the next four years of emotional turmoil, I fell in love with Cal. Though the attraction was instant, and mutual, Cal’s brotherly loyalty to Robert forbade our love. Finally I was willing to leave both for the fulfillment of my vow; but fate intervened, and with Roberts death, an opportunity for true happiness.

So begins the second novel, and the convoluted story of marriage to an addict. Deeply involved in his cousin’s illicit organization, but driven by his passionate love for his father’s small construction business, my husband was again torn between loyalties.  As for me, I had to decide which was the greater act of courage: to abandon my husband and in his hour of greatest need, or trust his word this was the final job for organization, payment for a new beginning for them all.

Have you ever faced an insurmountable choice? How do you react in the face of your deepest fears?

Character of the Week: Devi!

Welcome to Come In Character, Devi. Please tell us about yourself...

Hello, everyone! My name is Devi Marconi. I was born in 1936 in Memphis, to a pious mother and a free-spirited father – a match I never understood. It was Dad – a lover of Indian culture – who named me Devi (Da-vey). When he died in World War II, my mother moved the family (including my brother, Seth, and my sister, Linda) to her hometown of Lexington, Kentucky – the land of bourbon and bluegrass.

From then on, I was a pretty miserable child – ignored by my siblings and emotionally abused by my mother. But life changed when I was thirteen, on a Thanksgiving trip to Mammoth Cave National Park.

While I longed to see the caves as my beloved father had described them, I ended up on the most boring tour imaginable. So, when I spotted a culvert beside the trail, I took my chance and escaped. At first, it was incredible – the blackest black I’d ever known – but it didn’t take long for me to become lost, hurt, and scared.

Attempting to reach the tour group, I fell down a shaft, where I would’ve died had a boy named Jesse Littleton not found me. Soon afterward, I awoke in the secret, subterranean village of Ruby Hollow. I spent six weeks down there, recuperating from my injuries, exploring the Hollow’s many intricate levels, and getting to know Jesse and the rest of the Hollowites. I learned to play the guitar, became an integral part of the community, and helped Jesse discover some underground hot springs. Though I felt at home, I eventually had to go back to my family.

Growing up, I longed to return. After high school, however, I followed my older brother down to New Orleans – for one last worldly experience before committing myself to a life underground. But, alas, I met a man named Patrick Marconi, and when I discovered that I was unexpectedly pregnant, I decided to marry him and stay in New Orleans. Though I cared for my husband, our three girls, and the charms of southern Louisiana, the Hollow was never far from my heart.

One day, I shared the legend of Ruby Hollow with my youngest daughter, Olivia. For years, she believed it to be a made-up bedtime tale... until she discovered a chest filled with love letters from Jesse. Realizing the Hollow was real, she confessed her find. Instead of being angry, though, I felt relieved.

After my estranged mother passed away, I asked Olivia to accompany me to Kentucky for the funeral. It gave me an excuse to introduce her to the Hollow. Seeing the woods above Mammoth Cave after all those years was a thrilling experience, and I knew that I had to stay. It wasn’t an easy decision: Although I knew my family would be all right without me, I was afraid of losing Olivia.

We’ve stayed in touch over the years, but it’s not the same. Of course, I’m happy that she’s found such a good man, even had children of her own, but I wish we weren’t so far apart. Still, I can’t imagine being anywhere but Ruby Hollow.

So, what’s the hardest decision you’ve ever had to make?

Character of the Week: Charles!

Welcome to Come In Character, Charles.  Please tell us about yourself...


Hello, I am Charles Owens. It's a pleasure to meet you, I'm sure.

I grew up in England, near London, in the early 1800s. Being of a somewhat richer family, I was part of an arranged marriage, and my wife and I quickly had two children, one boy and one girl.

My life took a sharp twist when I found out my friend, Alexander Clark, was getting involved in the occult. I tried to stop him, but instead got sucked in as well. It was one of his experiments that turned Alexander into a werewolf. He also claimed his meddling summoned the vampire that turned me.

I met the vampire, Chanel, during a trip to London. She was a local business girl whom I hired one night. She was rather disturbed by the minor detail that was my wife. Apparently she too had been married, but her husband had left her for some tramp.  So as a punishment for my infidelity she turned me. I stumbled home that night and ended up crawling into bed next to my wife. Probably one of my biggest mistakes.

I went into a frenzy as my body realized its need to feast on human blood. I didn't know what I was doing. I ended up draining my wife and children that night. When I realized what I had done I ran to Alexander. He cleaned me up, and kept me sane, ignoring the fact that I had just murdered three innocent people.

My brother-in-law, Stefan Swane, enraged with the death of his sister, sought out a vampire to turn him as well. He seeks revenge, probably won't stop till I'm dead. His first attempt on my life was the night of Alexander's first full moon induced transformation. Let's just say it was a bit of a disaster, and Alexander ended up destroying his precious home while in wolf form.

We've traveled from then on, never staying in the same place for too long, least the body count gets too high. (I have a tendency to totally drain a person of their blood. If they had wanted to live, they would have run faster.) We moved to America in 1893, Stefan following a few weeks after us.

I'm supposed to start a discussion now, correct? It was suggested that I ask if anyone knew how to get rid of someone intent on causing you a horrible painful death. However I believe that topic would either be too grisly or too hard for some to relate to. And so in honor Alexander and his most recent request for me to "get off [my] lazy butt and actually do something for once," and my total lack of motivation to do so, what is it that motivates you? Why do you drag yourself out of bed in the morning? Why do you try?

Character of the Week: Gabby!

This week's featured character is the strong and silent Gabby.  We're looking forward to learning all about you.

Most of you know my history - Born in Jamaica - then when I was five Dad moved the three of us to New York where he immediately got run over by a bus so Mum and I were left to make it on our own. I don't know all she did but I was left to run wild and did everything I could to help out. Stealing,- running drugs (never took none) anything that come along.  I got to be warlord in our neighborhood.
Then I killed my mum. Sort of an accident with a chair over her head.

They sent me to this place for incorrigibles.  It's sort of experimental.  Newly built, a million miles from nowhere, in the Faraway Wood.  I haven't said a word since Mum died. Why bother?  But I'm head man around here, just by proving everyday that I'm tougher and meaner than anyone. No kid dares cross me.

Then I snook out of bounds and found the Mystical wood. It's a rare, wondrous place like I never imagined.
The animals accept me as their friend, especially the Unicorn.  But that's the trouble - it woke up love in me and kindness that hadn't felt before. Back at the school,  I have to be always doing something more savage to prove my right to leadership and hide the new softness.  If the gang sees it they will tear me to pieces. Have any of you  had such an inner battle?

Character of the Week: Marc!

Hey Everyone! I'd like to introduce this week's Character of the week, the fun Marc! Marc, tell us about yourself!

I'm Marcus David Trevet, called Marc. My eyes are grey like my Dad's but I look like the twins. People mistake us for brothers, even on CIC. :) We're actually cousins. Jason's my older brother, and our father is called Julian. He was twin brothers with Aidan's and Kaelin's father, Uncle Nathanial. Confused yet? I have wavy dark blond hair, which Lucy claims I never manage to get combed enough. (Lucy's the girlfriend, though things are a bit tetchy at the moment. I'll have you know, that girl on the beach kissed me first.)

I turned 86 this last March. Jason and I share the same birth month, though he's eight years older. Behaves every minute of it, too.

Kaelin says I should report my identifying markings, but I think he's just pointing out that I've not got half the ink he's got. I've the sun on my chest, a peace symbol from that Mexican prison, the Celtic Knot brand, Aidan's name written in Farsi. And the spider. I'd have to kill you if I told you what that was about. Nothing personal. I also wear a couple of silver hoops in the cartilage of my ear. I started the earring routine with Jason when the twins disappeared, but didn't continue like he did.


Before I became Aidan's sworn, I worked in IT for Sentinel. I still do a bit of trouble-shooting on occasion, and hacking always comes in handy when I'm in the field. But keeping Aidan out of trouble makes for full-time employment. (For instance, currently I must sleep with the lad because of his nightmares. If you can call it sleeping.)

For fun I like to throw the odd piece of furniture on a bonfire, drive my old Mustang, surf, and tease Kaelin, which also is like playing with fire, I reckon.

I'm supposed to ask a question. Right. What's the thing you've done that you're least proud of?

Character of the Week: Nevin!

I'd like to welcome this week's Character of the Week! It's our magical, peaceful and kind Nevin! Nevin, please tell us all about yourself:

Hi, everyone! I’m so happy to be here! I was told you want to know more about me, which is very kind of you.

I was born in a fairy glen in the part of England known as the Lake District. I’m afraid I was a bit of a rebel. I had a taste for human music and would often leave our glen to learn more about the instruments humans played. When I came home, I would conjure harpsichords and lutes so I could practice, but my music wasn’t welcome in my clan and they became irritated with me.

I left my clan in 1786 and went to Vienna. I had heard wonderful things about Mozart and hoped to meet him. I didn’t succeed in making his acquaintance, but I learned a great deal about music and when I heard that his sister was giving music lessons in Salzburg, I went to study with her.

That was how I met Kalila, who was also studying with Maria Anna Mozart. Kalila and I became very good friends. It was I who tried to get her to stay away from Thor at the Bayreuth Festival in 1876. Since she refused to listen to me, I felt I had to stay with her to protect her from harm. I followed her and Thor to America with a group of Scandinavian immigrants.

Together, Kalila and I became experts on American music. I very much liked ragtime and jazz, but Kalila got a notion to start a rock band. I wasn’t too keen on the idea, but we’ve been such good friends for so long, that…well, anything for a friend, right?

I help write songs for Kalila’s band and I play keyboards, synth, or any other instruments that may be needed for a song. I also try to cheer the band up when they’re feeling down, and I try to keep Ricky out of trouble. Ricky is the first manager I’ve really liked. He knows what we are and he likes us anyway. It makes me happy to have him as a friend, even though I sometimes have to make great sacrifices on his behalf.

But friendship is all about sacrifice, don’t you think? I’d love to hear everyone else’s stories about friendship and the sacrifices one has to make to keep those we love safe and happy.

Character of the Week: shy!

I'd like to introduce this week's Character of the week: shy!

(Note: shy has requested this be in an interview format. We're happy to comply.)

CIC: shy, please tell us about yourself. We've noticed you only speak in quotations. Why is that?

shy: "It's such a pleasure to write down splendid words - almost as though one were inventing them." ~Rupert Hart-Davis

CIC: That's very nice. So, when did you first begin to....

shy: "Quotations will tell the full measure of meaning, if you have enough of them." ~James Murray

CIC: I see. But tell us....

shy: "Somewhere in the world there is an epigram for every dilemma." ~Hendrik Willem van Loon

CIC: Yes. Well, we'd also like to know abit about you, Shy. How did you....

shy: "A proper collection of quotations is the whole world digested." ~Emma Racine deFleur

CIC: Well, that's.......lovely. So, when did you...

shy: "A quotation at the right moment is like bread in a famine." ~Talmud

CIC: I see. Are you hungry by any chance? I have some crackers around here, somewhere...

shy: "There is a lot more juice in grapefruit than meets the eye. " ~Author Unknown

CIC: Ummm.....

shy: "High-tech tomatoes. Mysterious milk. Supersquash. Are we supposed to eat this stuff? Or is it going to eat us?" ~Annita Manning

CIC: Okay, then. Well, how about we open this up to everyone. Any last words for us, shy?

shy: "Do vegetarians eat animal crackers?" ~Author Unknown

CIC: Alrighty then. shy, thank you so much for being our character of the week. It should be a very interesting day. Thank you!

shy has requested that folks share their favorite quotes with him. He is always interested in new quotations, and he feels you may know some very good ones!

Character of the Week: Olivia!

For this week's character of the week, I’d like to introduce Olivia, a passionate artist, wife, and mother! Olivia, please tell us about yourself:



Hi, everyone! My name is Olivia Harper.


Although I grew up in New Orleans and now live in southern Texas, I actually don’t have much of a Southern accent – and rarely do I utter the word “y’all,” unless I’m joking. In fact, I’m a fairly simple gal. I live with my husband, Michael; our children, Daryl and Samantha; and our beagle, Buddy, in a three-story, beachfront home on South Padre Island. Michael operates a pediatric practice on the mainland, while I run an art gallery and bead shop on the island.

My love for art began long ago, during my youth in New Orleans, a vibrant city that begs to be painted. There, I lived with my father, Patrick Marconi, a successful restaurateur; my mother, Devi, an unhappy housewife; my annoying twin older sisters, Rebecca and Sadie; and my beloved dog, Charlie. By the time I was an adolescent, I knew that I wanted to be an artist. So, with my parents’ encouragement, I enrolled in the New Orleans Center for the Creative Arts.

Following high school, I studied art and art history at the University of Texas at Austin. After earning a graduate degree and realizing that I was sick of school, I moved to San Antonio, where I met and eventually married Michael, the love of my life. Although it’s been a decade and we’re still happily married, there’s something I’ve never told him... even when he was in the midst of working on a book about childhood and imagination.

When I was a little girl, my mother told me about a secret, underground community in southern Kentucky, a made-up place called Ruby Hollow. Rife with wondrous chambers and eccentric characters, the Hollow filled my imagination as a child. Years later, as a sophomore in high school, I had forgotten about the Hollow and grown weary of my mother’s moods... until the day I discovered a cache of love letters in her closet – love letters from Jesse, the “hero” of her bedtime stories about Ruby Hollow. It was then that I realized the Hollow was real.

Eventually, I summoned the courage to confess my find. Surprisingly, Mom wasn’t upset. In fact, she seemed relieved. When her estranged mother passed away soon afterward, she asked me to accompany her to Kentucky for the funeral. While there, she decided to take me to Ruby Hollow – to meet Jesse and the rest of the Hollowites for myself. It was a trip that would change everything – including our relationship and my mother’s future.

Only my father knows why she never returned to New Orleans. Michael merely believes that she disappeared when I was fifteen. How can I tell him the truth – when doing so could risk the sanctity of an entire village?

Have you ever kept such a secret from the person you love most? Are you ready to share it now?

Character of the Week: Gabe!

Introducing this week's Character of the Week, the rebellious and angelic Gabe! I'll let Gabe tell you about himself:

I was born about 800 years ago, and shortly afterwards entered Training to be a Guardian Angel. For centuries, I served and obeyed the blind commands of my superiors. I watched good people's lives end earlier than they should, for no reason. I also saw humans waste their lives and make poor choices. Nevertheless, I guarded my charges. At times, there were battles with demons, where I fought valiantly and slew many of those infernal creatures. They were the hated enemy.

Finally, I was assigned to Grace. There was something about her. I watched her grow up. I protected her. I guided her. I helped her. And I fell in love with her. When it was declared her time to die, I couldn't do it.

I was through silently watching good people die while evil people lived. Certainly what I did was against the Rules, but it had never happened before, so no one was sure what to do about it. Micheal knew what he wanted, though. My best friend betrayed me. Somehow, I ended up sharing Grace's house with a half-blood demon. Between my best friend and Luke's incubus father, all of our lives have become less certain. I won't even mention the gang with Grace's name on their weapons. Frankly, now that I'm free of the silly little Rules, I'm feeling much more free. I don't have to worry about alcohol or cigarettes, and the hell-baby makes a great cigarette lighter!

So, I believe I'm supposed to toss a question out for discussion in addition to responding to questions about myself, so answer this: Have you ever been betrayed by someone you trusted most? Or have you ever decided that the System you've followed and supported for all your life is full of crap and no longer works for you?

Gabe, On Common Ground

Character of the Week: Destiny

I did not wish to have pictures. How can one convey me? However, Mira insisted, so we'll just call those Mira's pictures.

I commend Brandon on his choice of me as Character of the Week. Wishing to know Destiny is wise. I regret the delay and hope he did not take it personally. Sometimes I am needed elsewhere.

I have always existed. The Universe itself must consult with me. I say itself, because Universe has not yet decided if it will be male or female. It continues to ask me which is best, but some decisions one must make for oneself. I refuse to do all of the work. If you had met Universe, you would know exactly what I'm talking about. Universe just tends to drift, unless one takes a stand.

As you might have inferred, my job can be a frustrating one. Many choose to ignore me. For all have been given free will, which means they can make this choice. Personally, I do not agree with this, for what could be worse than ignoring Destiny? Free Will and I have had many heated debates on this matter. Free Will has a point, yet it does not share the sadness I feel when I watch humans choose the wrong path.

As they so frequently do.

I, Destiny, can be a hard path. I understand that. Yet, if humans only knew how much is at stake. Not just for those of us such as Destiny, Universe and Free Will, but for every human....

Although my job is frustrating, it is worthwhile. To watch a human fulfill their destiny brings me great joy and satisfaction. There is nothing so important in the Universe.

No matter what Universe says. But it's best not to listen to Universe. Trust me on this.

So, you probably have questions for me. Perhaps you wish to know your Destiny. I can not tell you this, of course, but I can guide you. Ask Destiny your questions.

Character of the Week: Vic

I'd like to introduce this week's Character of the Week: Vic. That's all I'm going to say. I don't want to accidentally get on this guy's bad side. So without further ado: Vic.

My name is Vic Drake and I'm the front man/lead singer for Maelstrom. I know humans think it's a little unconventional for a vampire to be in a rock band, but the hours are good and my fans are delicious.

I was turned when I was pretty young. I'm a couple hundred years old now and I don't think about the past very often. There's no point. I like being undead except for all the misunderstandings it creates. Humans need to ease up and just let me be what I am. (Yeah, I'm talking to you, Ricky.)

Let me clear up something I get asked a lot. No, I don't kill people. Not on purpose, at any rate. If I like your blood, I want you to stick around and make more of it, so killing you would be dumb. My favorite blood type is O and my least favorite is AB-negative. I like darkness, mausoleums, rock music, and blood banks. I'm also starting to get into organic foods, thanks to Nevin. Whole Foods is a great place to pick up dinner.

So what kinds of things do some of you like? I'm especially curious about you diurnal types, since you do things that make no sense, like sunbathing. Are there other nocturnals here like me? What do you like best about the night?

Note: Everyone welcome!

Character of the Week: Kaelin!

I'd like to take a moment to introduce you to our Character of the Week, the Marksman Kaelin. Kaelin, tell us about you.

I'm Kaelin Trevet. I'm my father's second son, twin to our Lord Seer. My rank is Ranger, First Marksman. That means I'm the top shot in the organization. It affords me some respect in Sentinel - more than a regular ranger - and that is everything to us. Our community is built on rigid rules of conduct and alliances as we're all demons and not to be trusted. Also, the Trevets in particular are not trusted within the organization. The family of the Seers would be outcasts if they didn't need Aidan's abilities so much. It makes rangers nervous when someone knows their secrets, as secrets are stock and trade in Sentinel.

Hundreds of years ago we decided to rebel against our maker, the demon Maliquium, who tried to turn us into an army against the humans we protect. But we suffer constant battle against our true nature. The rules help us with that. My father said I struggle more with it because I descend in a direct line from Maliquium himself, and also because I'm so young. My cousins don't seem to have the same problems with their temper that I do, though they are also direct descendants. But they're older, nearly a century old, so they've had a lot of time to practice. They're not perfect, though. Jason in particular is very intense when it comes to Aidan's wellbeing. And Aidan, well. He's different. He isn't bad like the rest of us.

For fun I like to shoot and read and spend time with women. I'm kind of like Bo in that way, I guess. I can't let myself get too close to anyone, though. The enemy has already used one human against me, and she died for it. I won't let that happen again.

The most important person to me is my brother Aidan. I can say that without reservation because the enemy has already tried to use us against each other, and of course Aidan knows how I feel about him. He's important to the war effort, but he's also important to me. I can't imagine my life without him, as annoying as he gets sometimes.

So my question to you is threefold: Who is the most important person to you and why, and what would your life be like without that person?

Character of the week: Brandon!

Introducing our Character of the week, the rebel Brandon! Brandon, please let us know all about you:






My name is Brandon, Brandon Casey.

I have a normal family, Mom, Dad, and my God brother Ian, all living in Washington. You could say I'm the laid-back type; I enjoy sports and a good beer to top off the perfect smoke break, not much more I can say about me.I work full time at a factory in Esquin...well used to, until that day I finally decided to change things for the better and overthrow the Mayor with Marco.

What really did it was running into that woman, Tanessa. Thanks to her I've lost my leg and been thrown in jail. Now, I'm on the run with her from Institute soldiers and a bounty hunter who wants to kill her for revenge....

And all because I agreed to change the city for the better.

A question: Do you have a favorite hangout nearby where you live?

Note: Character of the week is an everybody post.

Character of the Week: Ricky!

This week's Character of the Week is Maelstrom's band manager, Ricky. Ricky, tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in this line of work.

Hi. I'm Ricky Landon, owner of Landon Talent Management, a music promotion agency. Okay, let's be clear. I am the agency, since I'm still trying to get this business off the ground.

I was really into music as a kid and my dad always encouraged me to follow my dreams. He died of a heart attack when I was in high school and that's when I decided I'd have a career in music, no matter what. Unfortunately, I wasn't all that good. I thought I was, but once I got to college I met a lot of people with really amazing talent. I knew then that I'd never be a performer.

That was about the time some frat buddies of mine put together a garage band. I offered to be their promoter and actually got them some gigs. Since my mom was pestering me to get a degree in something practical, I changed my major from music performance to just regular music and added marketing as a second major. I graduated from Penn State, missing cum laude by a tenth of a grade point.

When I graduated, I came into my trust fund. My dad had been well off, but not what I'd call rich. I used my trust money to start a talent management agency. I got some bands and session artists, but none of them were very good, which made it hard to promote them.

I'm embarrassed to say I was part of the problem. My focus wasn't on business in those days. I wasted my trust money on sound systems and cars, going to clubs (supposedly to see new acts, but really for the party) and taking girls out. My bands weren't doing well and it all caught up with me. Bands terminated their contracts, the bills piled up, and I knew it was time to get serious.

I was down to my last twenty dollars when I met Kalila. At first I thought her band was my worst nightmare, but now I'd have to say that they're the best thing that ever happened to me. I'm out of debt, my business is back on track, and I'm working hard to get Maelstrom to the next level. They're capable of being major stars and when that happens, I'll be a success with them because we all win in this game. It started with just one lucky break.

So how many of you have had a lucky break? If you haven't, please tell me you haven't lost faith. It can happen for anyone, usually when you least expect it.

(Character of the Week is an "everybody" post.)

Character of the Week: Flower!

This week's Character of the Week is our Flower. Flower, please tell us about your world.





My name is Flower.



I don’t… I’m uncomfortable with talking much but, well, I talk here more than I do anywhere else so… that’s why I said I’d try to stick with being sociable for a bit.



The invite hurt - I don't mean to be quiet like deliberately but, my head throbs when I have to think of words to say. I can feel them in my head, and in my mouth sometimes, but I can't always make them come out (I feel them stretch behind my temples - like lines of pain - weird). Sometimes people here are just so happy I have to squint so I can read the words and follow. I've done the banging my head on the floor bit and I don't want to go back to it - hurting on the outside might be easier to deal with but it hurts too. I did talking before - can't imagine what I spent all day saying but I know I used to do that.



Anyway, I live in a place with grass, water, gorse bushes and heather. I see more golden eagles here than people.



My Great Uncle Will is my f-amily now… since – but, well – whatever.



There’s only one other croft I can see from our cottage: James and Sam’s Dad – that’s Tom - lives there with Egg’s (Edward) Dad – that’s John - and the boys. The brothers won’t shut up and the other makes me sound talkative. I’m supposed to home school there. Egg ‘draws’ – but I don’t think it’s educational to graffiti. The other two live to learn – most of the time I don’t want to do either.



I reached 16 a while ago – not a celebration – not something I wanted to do – it happened anyway – that’s time for you.



I had two friends I would have tried to walk on water, or through fire, for – they crossed over the road when they saw me after my Mum d – did that thing.



I have trouble with the dark – it was dark that evening when the car that was overtaking her thought better of it and ploughed my Mum’s car into a tree. She didn’t d__ right then – she made time to send me messages on her mobile. I got them next morning at Joy’s (the fosters - not literally, The Fosters – but you know). There was the dinner text that she must have sent before she left work, and the two with shit spelling that said the other stuff – I can’t even think of the words to explain what I did then.



I don’t eat or sleep – and I definitely avoid doing the two later in the day – I dream bad dreams of Mum being gone but worse ones when I think she’s still with me – I wake up vomitting – and no it isn’t my idea of a good idea.



My Mum was sharp-smart, funny, energetic, loving, strict and moral (I was going to mention messy – but that’s not a quality) - she called me Petal for short!



I had to think of things for discussion so –



What would you say are your best and worst qualities?



How can you survive the unsurvivable?


(Note: this is an everybody post.)

Character of the Week: Kalila!

Today's Character of the Week is our magical musician, Kalila!

Kalila, please tell us all about your fascinating life:




Hi, everyone! I spent my first two thousand years in Persia and India. In 1682 a trader with the Dutch East Indies Company took a fancy to my lamp and next thing I knew I was on my way to Europe!

I fell in love with Western music and in 1805 I went to Salzburg to study under Maria Anna Mozart. That’s where I met Nevin. A few years later, 1876, I met Thor at the first Bayreuth Festival, where he had gone to see Wagner’s Ring cycle performed. Thor was about to leave for America with a group of Norwegian farmers, and I tagged along.

In America, I studied jazz and rock music, and tired of Thor’s bullying ways. I told him I would become a rock star. To spite me, he said he would become a rock star first and would do it without magic. I accepted his challenge, put together a band, and hired a manager. All of my managers came to unfortunate ends until I met Ricky.

People ask what it’s like to be immortal. Well, I’m only immortal in my djinn form. In my human body, I’m susceptible to the dangers that can befall any mortal. In general, though, there are few limits on my longevity. The challenge is how to keep from becoming bored. So my question to all of you is how do you pass the time?

Character of the Week: Ms. Fettleston!

Please let me introduce you to this week's Character of the Week, our Ms. Fettleston. Ms. Fettleston, please let us know more about you:

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Thank you Ms. Mira. I am delighted to have an opportunity to chat with all of you young folk. As for me, really, I'm afraid I am not very interesting. But I was quite flattered when that sweet young Candy asked me to speak, and I shall do my best to answer any questions, dear.

I live alone, and I am older, as you know, dear. I have retired from my profession. I was a librarian, and I quite enjoyed my work. I do miss the bustle of the library at times. I was very proud of my section, and I was gratified to receive quite a few commendations from my supervisors. I keep those commendations on a shelf in my den, dear.

What else shall I tell you? I suppose, being young, you would like to know about love in my life. Well, I did have one rather special friend. He was a lively and handsome young man, always full of fun. So charming. Sadly, we argued over something really quite trivial. However, it seemed so important to us at the time! It was quite a bitter argument, and we did not speak for several months. By that time, my young man had found another. We did remain in touch, occasionally. He had three lovely young children, and I send them cards at Christmas.

My goodness, I'm afraid that I do feel a little sad thinking of this, my dear. However, it would be an unusual life that had no regrets, wouldn't it? And I do have many happy memories, as well.

I have been given many blessings, my dear. All things considered, I have had a long and happy life. I have had an opportunity to contribute my little share to the world. I have much to keep my busy: My knitting and hobbies, my garden, my volunteer work at the hospital, and of course, my activities in my Church. The Good Lord has given me many gifts, including such wonderful friends in my life. I am gratified to include you lovely people among them.

Now. Ms. Mira asked me to ask a question to start the discussion off. Well, really, I think that is more than enough about me. Perhaps you can tell me about all of you. I find being around such vibrant young folk to be quite invigorating. I would love to know what your plans are for your life, dears. Perhaps you could tell me all about them.

Character of the Week: Candy!

Today, I'd like to introduce our fiesty Goth resident: Candy!
Candy, we'd like to know all about your world:

You know me as Candy but my parents christened me Daisy! Can you believe it? Like I was a cow or something!! I felt suffocated with them in that little row house in the suburbs of Birmingham. As though I was old already. No choice but to plod through life like them. School was the same, until I discovered painting. It was like escaping through a keyhole into another world. I won awards. Teachers praised me.
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My parents grumbled I was wasting my time. Then I met Brian. He looked like Adam on American Idol. He made me up, had my hair cut and colored, got me pierced with rings, studs and hoops, and helped me buy clothes. We were a cool couple and now people paid attention to me. I actually scared them! I was different and tough. I still am. I ran away to live with him in London. He didn't look like Adam anymore. Again I felt trapped. Going nowhere.

Then Mother called. "Your Great Aunt in America needs help. Close to dying, I 'spect. Got no heirs and must be nearing ninety. Play it right and you'll get everything."
'Course, Mum figures she'll get her slice. The whole family hates Great Aunt Alex 'cause she wore red at Grandfather's funeral. I'll go.
What if I can't stand her? What if she doesn't die? I don't even know what she looks like!
Probably lives in a dump! How do I get that money out of her? I don't want to change my Goth look. What if she hates me? I'd really appreciate any advice. I've never been to the U.S before. What's it like there? What should I do or not do?