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As the planet chooses partners based on complementary strengths and talents, compatibility, and other factors, it is hard to imagine anyone rejecting the bond. Especially because if the bonding of the power lines had progressed enough, one or both partners will die as they attempt to separate. Does that mean that nobody ever does it? Of course not, there are plenty of stories and reasons why people might reject a…

So they say when you design a character, before you set him or her free in a setting, you need to include a flaw. Well, to be honest I always chuckle over this, because what counts as a flaw? Too ambitious? Greedy for attention? Seeking out anonymity? Too quiet? Loud and obnoxious? Faithful? Independent thinker? Blind? Deaf? Anxiety disorder? Learning disability? Grieving? Fearful? Resigned? After all, what is a flaw…

As I was building Gordon as a character I wanted someone taller, thicker, physically powerful, imposing, cranky, and psychically so strong that he inspires fear in others. I wanted him to be an obvious leader, but the kind others appreciate at a safe distance, not up close and personal. I built him to be smart, casually in tune with the world around him in a way that mystified others. But…