Move along, move along.

The rough draft storyboard was complete last night, and given its structure - I am in the process now of fleshing out details and putting more detail in, as well as, fixing a couple glaring problems.
Overall, this is the third iteration of the now title-less book (dropped the Project: Alpha moniker). I'll focus on a title soon enough. 

A LOT of changes in the book this time around, and hopefully all for the good. I've also removed some of the things that were causing me issues, or if they could be fixed, were so. Some changes are minor, some are major. I'm compiling a list below, just to give you all some insight. I sound like an expansion pack by now: new character, bug fixes, minor tweaks, etc.

• In an effort to cut down on the amount of 'filler' material, SOCA has transformed itself (it probably won't be the last time, it has changed three times now) into a bioterrorism response agency. I thought about changing the name of the agency to something a bit more either generic, or a new acronym all together. I haven't quite decided yet, as the thought of something like a Task Force (highly secretive counter terrorism groups) could be useful in making things simpler and also, given that article in the parenthesis - says that Task Forces are given a single task. In this case, SOCA (or Task Force <number here>) would be the unit dedicated to fighting bioterrorism and its operatives are selected as such.
  In keeping with that moniker, if I go with that - I'm sure I could down on a lot of the political jargon by saying the unit reports directly to the President perhaps. Meh, noted. If I maintain the acronym, I'll be busy for a bit coming up with a new agency name. Noted on the to-do list.
• A new third party has been introduced: Organization Epsilon. A secretive group of mercenaries and researchers that will work for the highest bidder. They strike an alliance with the Ultranationalists and have a hand in the development of the nanotech.
• In this iteration, the bad guys strike first instead of a cure turned virus. This time, the bad guys develop the nanotech and create a weapon of mass chaos and use it to begin striking fear into the world. The researchers that Allison and Heather are part of, are now tasked with researching the counter for it. They develop their own nanotech that is made to attack the alpha nano. This, when completed, allows to dilute and decontaminate the biological nanotech so it can be safely destroyed, or areas affected by it can be entered without the need of protective equipment.
• The new character, which I'm sure everyone is tired of hearing about now - has finally been given life. The final part was gathering her real name that is hidden by her alias of Scarlet Fair. Her real name is Alana (thank you Alana for allowing me the honor to use your name for her), with her last name left secret for now as that is part of the mystery of the character.
  To describe her: Late thirties (approximately 38 years old at the time of the book, but her character actually has storyline tracing back to her 27th year) Raven black hair, green eyes, athletic frame with an undetermined hairstyle as of right now (thinking a bob cut, or maybe even shoulder length). Her inspiration comes from Ada Wong of the Resident Evil series, but none more than her recent appearance in Resident Evil 6 (the link above shows this iteration of her). Then thanks to the gracious support and honor from Alana Morgan for allowing me to use her name for this character. 
• Scarlet has her own set of  'side missions' she embarks on during interludes in the main storyline, and is mainly her working behind the scenes to disrupt the Organization and the Russians. As the story begins to unfold, she begins helping SOCA/Task Force # indirectly with intel, and later on - dealing with Travi solely. Her role in the story rapidly expands as it is told, and I'm hoping that she makes a good impression with readers.
•  A couple changes to character names, Wesley has went to the federal level and had his name changed to Matthew in honor of my friend who has been a huge help in helping me get some degree of confidence built back up. Altered a couple other names of minor characters to give some diversification.
• Reintroduced two missions from previous drafts and altered to fit the storyline. The mission to Miami to stop the release of the nanotech, and the cathedral in Ukraine has been revisited in the final sweeps - culminating to a small showdown between the Gladius siblings.
• In an effort to give a more official feel of how the agency or task force depends on each other, the Mavericks have been given a personal handler by the name of Lenina Thompson. She serves as the direct link between the HQ and the team, and is inspired by Ingrid Hunnigan (again from Resident Evil, notice how I get my inspirations from that genre? Not sure why...)

This list is far from comprehensive and probably is forgetting quite a few things that need to be addressed later, like the now glaring *whaps self upside the head* thing of: What is the name of the agency now? Oh boy. No, it will not stop me! I shall prevail!
The cleaned up storyboard should clarify some additional details for me and it's looking promising that writing may begin very soon.

All that aside, time to become a Detroit Tigers fan since my Redlegs are out of the run. So, go Tigers!

Auf Wiedersehen.

Next step

Boring night where it'd be nice to have some kind of interaction with a human being in the form of talking - but alas, I am the only one who has the strange hours. Meh, story of my life as a second shifter.

Speaking of story, I have managed to put together a nice little storyboard for Scarlet now, and she has a modicum of a background now detailing her life up to the current point in the plotline. While I am wishing to keep some of the mystery secret, suffice it to say that she will hold a larger role than I first thought, and her appearances will be repeat. She has suddenly evolved into a very intriguing character, and it's amazing to think that she began as an afterthought of a femme fatale seductress.

She began her career as a CIA agent, and after learning her family was the target of the remnants of a drug cartel she had helped put an end too, she taunted the gunmen and led them on a chase. Setting up the whole thing, she thought ahead to stash supplies near the point she leads them too. After rigging the vehicle with explosives, she allows the tires to be shot at precisely the right time, and careens over the bridge and into the river. Just before it hits, she dives from the car and submerges under water as the car explodes. The cartel, believing her to be dead, quickly make their escape to avoid the approaching authorities that she had called as well. After the van leaves, she surfaces and begins the swim to the waiting supply bag, changes her outfit and makes to the shadows.

This event leads her CIA employers to classify her as KIA, and the details classified as to what actually happened, with the cover up being the car lost control. In faking her death, she effectively protected her family and began her own path in life, and over a period of eleven years - she finds her way into Organization Epsilon, the organization that is working with the Ultranationalists. The story begins her for her, that of a double agent that is actually working for the good of the world, and coincidentally, SOCA as a result.

The mystery will remain that for now as I feel it adds a new dimension to the story that was previously absent, but I think readers who read carefully will catch onto her role in the story quickly, and even delve into what kind of connection she holds to the various characters. But I feel it will make a huge impact and may allow the reader to relate a bit more to her role as someone who fights for the greater good.

In addition to her background being loosely complete, I have also gotten a hold on the storyboard for the main story and delved a bit further into the fixes and tweaks I've made. Everything seems to be working pretty well, now it's a matter of finalizing the couple nagging issues that I have failed to resolve - but if all goes as planned, may have a good working draft by the end of the month. Precision is the key, and I'm being deliberate this time around. This book has been ten years in the making now, and I'm ready to put something on the market. I believe this may be the one that makes it.

Adieu.

New breakthrough

By now, I would imagine the few of you that even read this thing (labor of love I swear it), are sighing whenever you see the title "New Breakthrough!" given my track record. But this time, I honestly believe, thanks to some input from Matthew, that I have found a good way to complete the story and also open some mystery up.

The aforementioned Scarlet who has been talked about for three entries has finally put her foot in the door as a character and it's incredible how she has fleshed out as of late. My previous entry described what I had in mind for her to pick up a leg of the plotline, but I've thrown in a new twist now thanks to the input I received. I like how the character has suddenly progressed, and the way she set up will open the door for her eventual return in sequels if and when that happens.

Also, have taken a 180 in the direction of the story, and made it so the bad guys strikes first. Then its up to Allison Kadmus and Co. to put a stop to it. Still mingling out details, but looks like I may have finally found a happy medium that won't make me want to rip my head off.

More details as I get them sorted.

Adieu.

Quick post before work

I lied a bit when I said I was abandoning the mysterious chick, but I think now I have some measure of idea how she can be used in another role. Not sure how I like this right now, but its thanks to Matthew that I had this idea now. It has merit in the way I'm looking at it, and I may flesh this out a bit more over the coming days.

The woman is tentatively named Scarlet at the moment, when I think may be more of an alias than her real name - if only because I'm not given her a name. She is the daughter of a prominent researcher, but a tomboy in every sense of the word. Had an early interest in science, sports, outdoors, and firearms.

She has no nationality, background outside what is above, nor have I really thought out who she is. Again, very rough ideas that I may expand on if feedback is favorable. I'm thinking she may have some sort of connection with SOCA and/or Travi at some point - though again, not sure how yet. He is the notepad copy and paste, raw form. Some details are repeated.


Scarlet works her way through the organization's board to their black ops team. Thing is, her father
was killed by the organization heads after he refused to work on the project. Unbeknownst to them,
Scarlet takes on the code name, and becomes their top agent. She begins manipulating things behind
the scenes while trying to subtly take down the organization and the Ultranationalists in their
attempts to unleash the project. She also becomes a helpful insider to Travi's team in their final
attack - working on the inside and allowing them access and giving them information.
The information she gathers from the medical center in Italy is taken with her, at first - she has
aspirations of destroying all of the files because of the power it would give man to cheat death.
But then, once she realizes that in the right hands - it can be used for good and not abused, she
decides to keep the information until her sources tell her that SOCA is on the case.

During the second mission, she is retrieving information on how the project will be distributed in
time, leading her to information that she forwards to various government agencies to prevent
attacks, both conventional and biological.

Mission three has her meeting with the superiors of the organization she is working for. During
this, she presents the data she has retrieved to show her good fortune. But as they begin to take
the data, she pulls her guns and kills them. After this, she begins shooting up all of the evidence
before setting the place on fire. On her way out, she eliminates most all of the guards and escapes
the base. Turns out that this organization had located the Ultranationalists base of operations due to insider moles, she takes the data before blazing the place.

Mission Four, she arrives at the secondary base of operations and forwards all the relevant data
onto the SOCA teams, and begins her own mission to eliminate the rest of the Ultranationalist chain
of command. During this, she destroys more evidence of the alpha project, once she is done - she
leaves a beacon for Russian fighter jets to destroy the area. As the bombs go off, she grapple lines
off and out of sight. Her fate is unknown.

Given this mindset, she is working almost as a crusader against oppression. No backup at all, and she is doing partially out of revenge, but it's also possible that she holds some love of human life - given her willingness to forward the data onto SOCA about the Ultranationalists, and even forwarding the information she has on the project, both good and ill, to the researchers that she finds out are still alive.
A complex character, and I'm still not sure if I'll use her. She could make an interesting character in this means, but I also believe that she could hold more value in her role in a sequel. Time will tell...

Adieu.

A closer look at the mysterious chick

So, the past few posts have had a focus on a potential mysterious associate that works alongside the previously immovable Mark Gladius. The idea for this has come about due to my recent looks at how various mediums carefully weave stories together from different POVs. Mark, by himself - is a powerful character in terms of his aura that he exhibits. When he's around, he's clearly in control of the situation and seems to value his mission over personal life (as shown during the initial raid on the facility, several of the assault team are killed by the security forces, he says to leave him).

So, Mark's personality is defined by his will to accomplish his goal no matter what, and ultimately - his goal is complete annihilation. It is referenced in one draft during a conversation with General Aramov that he has a deep seated hatred for nearly everything, no more than the forces that brought him life. He has repeatedly cursed God for his existence, and on another occasion saying once he gets to the pearly gates, he'll bring it down along with the rest of creation.

I ask myself why Mark would work with General Aramov at this point, and my only real answer is that Mark is using the general to gain access to the ultimate biological hazard weapon to use in his genocide. This would make since, seeing as how he would want access to the means to carry out that genocide. The General recruits him, saying he needs the expertise in retrieving the project and behind the scenes, Mark plots to take the project for himself and unleash it on the world as a whole. The argument can be made that someone in his position would just kill themselves if they hated life that much, but I see it as more of a vindication thing. He's trying to prove that he can beat God, and then wants to rub it in the man's face when he gets there.

So, if Mark is after absolute genocide - then what does this mysterious seductress wish for? I doubt she would assist in such a measure unless she had the same death wish. No, I'm thinking she has other - more sinister intentions. In the possible realm of someone who is looking to control the world instead of destroy it, for whatever reason. But I'm having real trouble envisioning this working realistically speaking, as I would have to possibly sever some ties with the original idea. In that, where does Mark actually come in? And is it possible that he'll have other intentions?

If we go this route, we're looking at a small character revamp and this mysterious associate is in the act. Perhaps there is no ties to the Ultranationalists at all, and they are acting independently. But this wouldn't work as it would literally kill half the story. So, this is a no go.

On the other hand, if she is merely working with Mark as means to gather the project for herself: What could she gain from controlling the world? Or why would she want too? These questions are really refusing to be answered, and I can't really toss in another character when she'll serve no purpose. As of right now, she would not have anything I could really work with and make it sound realistic.

Going to mull on this for a bit, be back here in a few.

Alright, had a chance to mull over it and got an opinion from Nikita (thank you!). This mysterious seductress could be potentially working for a larger group of undercover operations in their attempt to gain control of the project for their own means. Instead of destruction, they wish for domination and their operative in this gal is their means to gather it. Even though an antidote exists, patented by Allison Kadmus and Heather Greene - it is possible that this new group finds means to alter the project again, making the antidote irrelevant. Seems like sequel material.

Back to the task at hand, okay - so she's assisting Mark and as a result, what missions do they undertake outside what is given to them by the general in the meantime? There are already a few missions that are given, as they lead up to missions undertaken by the Mavericks. But in between, what are they doing? She wouldn't need a following, as she has that already in her organization.

Hmm, I'm at an impasse here. Her character may potentially exist, but to get an effective multiple POV line going - I need more material, and I'm lacking that horribly. I think I may err on the side of the caution right now and maintain my present course. With that, I plan to expand on my other look in sections, give a bit more insight into the going ons with the bad guys. But at this point, I am very doubtful I can put together any sort of second storyline with the content I have. This mystery chick may make an appearance, but at this point - it's not my main priority.

Alrighty, so - I will begin putting together a general storyboard in the next post and I think writing may begin again very soon. If things change, of course - you all will be the first to know.

Adieu.

A second glance at the second POV subplot

A couple days ago, I ran across this crazy idea of possibly writing in a second POV line of story that would be seen from the polar opposite of the spectrum. This involved putting the reader into the shoes of Mark Gladius, primary bad guy and elder brother of Travi Gladius, a venture not seen outside the opening scene of the book where it switches between him and the doctor attempts at escape.

In attempting this, I am literally trying to open the door for the readers to experience what happens while Travi is trying to save the world. In this side of the story, it turns out that Mark is merely working for his own interests along with the help of a mysterious seductress that suddenly has an interest in him. I discussed what kind of role this chick would play, and turns out she is looking to be the femme fatale sort - one that will use whatever is at her disposal, be it her gun, knife, or body, to get what she wants. Later, I went on to see what sort of fate she would share at the story's end. Would she have died along with Mark, or is it possible she has a hand in the cards, and is merely using EVERYONE else in her game of chess?

We'll get back to her in a moment, right now - I want to focus on Mark's storyline. I'm liking the idea that he is feigning loyalty to General Aramov while they do the heavy lifting of transforming the alpha project into the mass scale, mass destruction weapon - then once the time is right, Mark's own people and he was well, take over. Those that were loyal to Aramov, die along with him. The Soviets that still believe in destroying any who stand in their way, remain with Mark - not knowing they are just being used by him while he plots his genocide. The way I see his storyline playing out is a lot like his own agenda of gathering followers that would assist him in his plan of totally snuffing out humanity.

I never quite figured out what Mark's issue is, outside just being a deranged, homicidal maniac. He has repeatedly, in the original drafts, cursed his own existence and God for his audacity to create him. Now at this point, is Mark's true goal dominion over his fellow man, or does he plan to just kill everything, including himself? The whole gathering of the troops would make more sense if he promises these depraved followers some sort of world that they can run amuck all they want. In the mold of Simon Phoenix from "Demolition Man" perhaps, willing to bring civilization down for their own ends for whatever reason. Some may be it in for the money, others just for the pure joy of unbridled freedom in being able to do whatever they want.

But if Mark's true goal is just kill everyone, including himself - then it's possible that his 'partner' in the idea, the seductress is using him for her own goals. Gathering this following, as she claims will assist him in doing what he plans to do, but in the end - her main plan is gathering an army that she can put together and lead in her own ambition to become queen bitch of the world. Which would be a story for another day...

The second route of gathering the people together holds more story value as it introduces another character, and adds another darker, behind the scenes interest in the book. Mark's true goal is complete genocide, but she insists on helping him gather these followers (or perhaps she recruits him for the job, in some false lie that they will help). Once it's all done, and they take over - she calls the shots in a pseudo sort of fashion and once Mark is dead, the ones that weren't killed join with this chick and it sets the stage for the sequel perhaps...

All of a sudden, the idea of a third part manipulating someone with such an aura of power such as Mark would denote some sinister intentions. I'm liking this...

Adieu.

We now return you to your regularly scheduled blog post

After the small dump of the brain on the last post, it's time to get back to brainstorming and hopefully make my way toward getting a third draft concepted. Conventional wisdom tells me that I have fixed a lot of the nagging issues that were plaguing me and keeping a persistent writers block in place.

While sleeping way longer than usual last night (a grand total of 12 hours sleep with a couple wake ups during the night due to sinus blockage, ugh) I remembered another thing that had brought me some annoyance and that was the mission I had since coined the 'suicide turning point' of the story. This was the mission in which SOCA teams are sent off on supposedly legit missions, only being led into traps that will snuff them out. As of right now, the Mavericks are sent to a safehouse in the Cuban foothills. Once there, they find the house full of empty intel, a deliberate set up. After a few minutes of securing the place, a pair of enemy fighter jets bomb the place with missiles. When they awaken, all of them now bruised, bloodied and battered - they are forced to contend with a mop up team of Ultranationalist soldiers. Adele arrives soon after, and they manage to escape but not before Travi literally dies and is breathed life once more.

Now the idea behind the mission is sound, and I like it. However, I'm having to think about how plausible it would be. The idea of a fighter jet or two bombing this place, what are the odds of it completely demolishing the place? Then, how possible or plausible is it that the missiles hit, but only destroy a portion of it - but the force of the impact is enough to injure and daze the team inside. Given it is fiction, there is always some form of leeway granted due to the fact that although its real world and physics do apply (or do they?), the heroes have to live on to fight another day, am I right?

When I think about this, I reference the part in Modern Warfare 2 during the "Wolverines!" mission in which the restaurant is attacked by jets and it only destroys half of the store:

At about 2:54 in the video, you will see what I mean.
The jets come in, drop their payload and if you keep listening past that, you will hear Sergeant Foley say they are okay and need to get out.

This leads me to think that the idea is at least somewhat plausible for a fiction piece, because that is what is Modern Warfare 2 is obviously. So, as I think about it - the more that idea becomes a bit more solid and it is possible to maintain that aura of complete loss on the team's part. This would also set up the rest of the story nicely, and be a climax for the end of the first half of the book.
So, it would seem to me that that area would be okay at this point after referencing some fictional pieces of work for extra reassurance. Lord knows I need it.

Alrighty, starting tomorrow I think I will begin putting together a rough storyboard on how I see this new draft playing out. Eager once again to begin writing, maybe I can make it all the way this time. Time will tell...

With that, adieu everyone.

A quick thought, then back to your regularly scheduled blog post

Just as a change of pace for a moment while I unload this particular thought into worded form. I have already been looking ahead in time several months as I tend to do whenever I get some grandiose idea along the lines of hoping to become an author someday.

Getting your foot in the door is the beginning of any journey as many of us know, and its that important step that becomes all the more part of your focus on a daily basis when you wish to make something happen. However, this is not as easy as opening said door and placing your foot inside. No, quite the contrary. In an attempt to get some measure of a head start into gauging interest of my book to potential publishers, I have written several query letters to various known publishing houses.

Over the span of a few months, I sent about five letters out to the likes of Random House, Del-Ray etc. The few that decided to give me the time of day was nothing more than a solid: No, not interested. You lack <insert excuse here>. The others did not even bother to reply, leaving me with absolutely no clue as to intentions.

Now, I know that my life's well being will not hinge on the publishing of books, that is already been said. It's a very rare chance that I will take off on my career with book writing and end up successful enough to quit my day job. And by rare, I mean less than 1%. I have accepted that fact, and I'm more at the point of: Can I accomplish this and consider it one of my life's major achievements? Then if I wind up mildly successful with it, maybe a little extra income. But not to get too far ahead of myself, let's get back to the idea of at least saying: Hey, I published a book. I at least did something with my life.

After some extensive research and some looking into alternative options, along with a peer review from a fellow first time author who used this company, I have found a publishing house that may be able to serve the purpose I look to achieve. I have spoke with a few people, and in the spirit of entrepreneurship - it seems like a risk worth taking. I have read the warnings, the advice from people who say: Keep trying. Let's face it, the big name publishing houses will not even look at you unless your name is Stephen King. A lot of people make the argument: They started out in the same position as you, and look where they got. This is true, to an extent.

The talent differentials, as well as differences in daily lives and what I have to do as a day job to make ends meet rarely offers me a lot of time to spend solely on trying to write books. And the sad reality is, on the websites of these big name publishing companies, they pretty much go ahead and put it in black and white for you, something along the lines of: We reject a thousand letters every day from authors like you, and you should not be surprised if we do the same to you. That, to me, is literary jargon for: Who the hell are you again? Yeah, go away kid - you're bothering me.

So, this company I have given serious consideration too seems to be rather legit. People who have used them agree that they deliver on their promises made with their very non-exclusive contract. Back to the part about entrepreneurship: It does cost money to cover printing, publishing, and distribution. A lot of people argue that shouldn't happen. Why not? They are a business, just like any other - trying to make money.

The start up cost for this is 499.00 for their basic package, but I believe I would go ahead and tack on the additional distribution package for 199.00 more. So, pretty much 700.00 to begin with. Well within my budget range, and easily paid for with my own checks. The better idea though, is could I potentially recoup that money by marketing out my book and being aggressive in trying to get my name out there. One neat aspect of this, is the publishing company does distribute to actual book stores, not just online. And they have a fee-free return policy should the books not sale, a boon to most book stores because they do not wish to pay to send them back (again, they are a business looking to make money).

I would imagine the vast majority of my sales, if any, would come via the publisher's website and Amazon.com, with whom they deal. With a marketing campaign that I could potentially put together, along with asking my faithful friends to help spread the word, perhaps there is a chance that I could break even one day, or who knows - maybe even make a little profit.

I'm obviously not going to go into specifics because I don't want to argue with people over my decisions. My mind is not made, but with my current impasse and the lack of traditional publishers willing to give new authors a look, leaves the said new authors looking for other means to get their work out. Someone who writes, inevitably wants to share their work with the world. Because, let's face it...

Just because your name isn't Stephen King...
                                                        ...doesn't mean you don't have a story to tell.

And for the first time author, looking to get their work out there, for others to enjoy and read - we have to get creative and say fuck it to the traditional publishers. Because, there again...

Just because we may not become as famous of Stephen King...
                                                                     ...doesn't mean we don't have a story to tell.

'Till next time, and back to brainstorming as I think I'm beginning to draw close to draft number three's conception.

More on the previous idea

Looking at my previous post, given it's complexity - it is definitely something I'm not considering too heavily at the moment if only just due to the fact I would have to look at possibly derailing an entire subplot to make it work.

But given that line of thought, the potential with it is so great that my mind has been locked on it all day long. The idea of the second and third storylines with intersecting sections with the main storyline at times, and giving a deeper understanding into the other going ons has my brain running in overdrive with excitement. The only real issues with this is the second POV, involving Allison and Heather would be rather dull unless its carefully crafted to include some sequences of action, such as defending themselves from would be assassins and the like.

This idea has some merit as they would undoubtedly be the target of multiple attempts. SOCA would defend them to the death as necessary, so there wouldn't be many opportunities for this to happen except at select times. The other idea would be to change their roles up and make them into some sort of agency role as field agents, perhaps originally in Italy on VIP detail and they 'know too much' making them the target of the Ultranationalists. But that is where the derailing comes in, and I'm not liking it because I would literally have to rewrite that entire subplot. In a word: Uncool.

So, with my idea of having to protect themselves from attacks is a bit more plausible except for the fact of when and how. At the moment, there is really only one instance where they would have to make some sort of effort to defend themselves and that is during the attack on SOCA HQ during the third mission. Otherwise, most of their time is spent researching - and Lord knows I don't want to spend a lot of time trying to feign some kind of expertise in writing out scientific research. While my knowledge of science is better than most other subjects, its the principality of the situation in that I really don't want to bore people with a science lesson in a book that is supposed to be more action oriented.

That will remain a mystery for now, but the third POV - that from Mark Gladius has a lot of merit. Is it possible to run just two POVs? Sure. The added dimension of a third would be nice, but I also don't want to push my luck nor make my brain explode more than it already wants too. The third POV, Mark Gladius's mission to undo the world along with a mysterious-yet-to-be-named associate who, if used, I'm leaning heavily toward being a woman just for an added taste of a femme fatale type who is an expert at everything from gunplay to seduction and is not afraid to use whatever means necessary.
The only real problem I have with this is Mark's reliance on himself to do everything, could I make him where he would be willing to place some measure of trust in a woman who has the same lust for destruction as him? It would add some measure of depth to the character in that he is still human and a woman who could regularly act as sexual appeal to more darker side of things (as Mark is the yin to Travi's yang, this chick could the yang to Allison's yin). Having a destructive duo in Mark and <insert name here> would be a polar opposite of Travi and Allison.

With all that said, Mark's missions would mainly involve gathering a following of people who want the same as he does, complete mayhem and genocide ala the Joker from "The Dark Knight". Some in it for the money, others just plain depraved and maniacal. Mark's story could occasionally intersect with Travi's, leading to encounters between the two Gladius brothers (to be told from Travi's side probably, as the story would continue with him). After the encounter, the elder Gladius will normally escape and the story continues from Travi's POV (kind of like a switching characters type of idea like in a video game, one character takes you up to a certain point - then you take control of another).

So, Mark's missions would more than likely involve busting open prisons, raiding prison ships or aircraft to free those men and such. His associate would act as his help, assisting him in his rallying of the gathering. During this time, he may also carry out missions for General Aramov, perhaps all just feigning loyalty to the Ultranationalist leader, but in the end - has his ulterior motives. Using others for his ultimate goal, using the General and his soldiers to get the weapon of mass destruction and genocide, then after the heavy lifting is done, take over and execute your plan. The idea of Mark working for his own ambitions adds another level to his character, and also shows what lengths he'll go to, to accomplish his goal of literally setting the world ablaze and killing everything in sight, perhaps even turning on his own people once its all said and done. Or maybe he does have some trust in the people who share his lust, and they are merely cannon fodder for when the good guys show up.

And of the female associate, her role would have to be a bit more defined - but I think, as I said earlier, she will make a perfect femme fatale, some sexy seductress who more than knows her way around a gun, and other types of persuasion - perhaps even being the kind that will use her body to get what she wants. The added sexual appeal of her character, and given how I want her to be shown as - would give a deadly combination to her character that would mirror Mark's genocidal nature to a T. In the end though, she would face the same fate as Mark, or would she...? Hmm...I'm getting ahead of myself, but I think she may have future plans (sequel perhaps?) It could be that she is the one who is using others to make her own ends. Mark may be her pawn in her game of chess. Damn, it's amazing what happens when I just let my brain pour out.

If I'm thinking this out the way I think I am, she would wind up much like Ada Wong from the Resident Evil series. That would make for an interesting twist, (spoiler here, so don't read if you don't want to know) especially when you consider her doppelganger from the newest Resident Evil game.  (spoiler ends here). 

All of a sudden, that second POV is looking very enticing. The third one involving Allison may or may not be used and I think I may keep her sections regulated to the "Meanwhile at the Hall of Justice" type of interjections. None less important, but its hard to build a storyline around her character in its current role. Without an adjustment to some sort of role involving action, I cannot build a good subplot that wouldn't bore readers to death.

Alrighty, off to bed. 'Till next time.

Additional mind zapping thoughts

While dealing with this stomach bug today, I've had plenty of time to think about a few other ideas that I've tossed around in my head. Vertigo, along with deep thought thought makes for a lousy afternoon/evening though.

But hey, no pain - no gain. My main focal point on this entry will be how I'm dividing chapters up. Or, at this impasse - do I move onto a new idea of focusing storylines on individual characters important to the plot. The idea of traditional chapters allows me to streamline the book's story as it progresses, but the idea of focusing on individual characters allows me to look deeper into what's going on while the story is progressing.

The thought for the latter stems from several ideas gathered from books I've read, games I've played or movies I've watched. Basically, it would alternate the character POVs, while maintaining the story progression. The other two storylines do not just sit idle while one is being focused, much to the fact - they would have their own things to attend too. 

• One POV would encompass for instance Travi Gladius, and his dealings with his team and the missions they embark on. To a lesser extent, I could include Bill Bishop as his support character that would see major "screen time". That's not to say the rest of the team would not be included, but Travi and Bill would make up the 'main' characters for this POV.
• Second POV would be from let's say Allison Kadmus's eyes and her work along with Heather Greene in developing the antidote and how they have to take the upmost care in their daily lives. Could be the pair of them have some scuffles to contend with, and it can be argued that the pair of them may have received some light training in survival.
• Third POV would be from the main bad guy in Mark Gladius, and perhaps an associate of his. Giving Mark some sort of associate would be an interesting twist as the man is the essence of pure evil and malice. How would I make this associate? In the same mold as him? Because right now, General Aramov would serve as the conscious between the two when he begins having second thoughts about a complete world genocide.
  This associate (to be named later if I decide to use him (or her?! :o That would be interesting)) would have to serve some kind of purpose during whatever I plan to write for Mark. I would imagine the majority of his stuff would be missions of his own, perhaps gathering the following he needs (as noted during the final mission in the second draft when he has a helicopter waiting for him, perhaps a set of deranged criminal minds), so maybe missions to bust open prisons for these depraved people? It could be Mark's goal all along to fain loyalty to Aramov, let him do the hard work and then bring in his own people that work with the Ultranationalists that were loyal to the mission of genocide if necessary. 

Of course, I also don't want to get too complex in my thinking, nor have to put the brain into overdrive to think up things for these POV chapters. Keeping with regular chapters with intermissions to the other two POVs (they are already there, just in much more minor form). Going with the new format would allow me to expand, but at what cost? Hmm...must ponder this a bit further. I like the idea, but also need to make sure I have a clear cut way for them to work. Intersection between the storylines would be nice as well. 

Anyhow, Reds are playing and its the playoffs - plus I'm feeling a little nauseous again. So wrap it up, I like where this is going and I feel like I'm starting to make some connections that I didn't have before.

'Till next time. 

The old missions from the original draft

So, oddly enough while I was getting this place cleaned up enough to have new carpet put down - I ran across the old (as in ancient, when grass was new) original draft of my story, the 213 page one that never saw the lick of daylight after it was printed and crammed into a box, never to seen again I thought.

I thought anyhow. Ran across it, and was overjoyed - spent the better part of an hour arranging it into order again and reading through it. This draft was printed off about six, maybe seven years ago. It's amazing at how far my writing abilities and skills have advanced since then (which may not be much considering). Regardless, I ran across several of the old missions the team had embarked on - several of which have not been used since.

One of these came during a raid on a Catholic cathedral that had been converted into a base of operations for the terrorists, with even the clergy of the place taking up arms for their cause. During this raid, one of the doctors that was abducted during the raid was taken him to be questioned, and ultimately executed. The team launched a rescue mission, wrecking shop on the priest-turned-gunmen, eventually leading to a solo mission by Chase Jules into the catacombs to rescue the doctor while the rest of the team stood guard and watched his flank, except for Travi.

Travi decided to go investigate the upper floor of the place, checking for additional evidence. On this escapade, he encounters his brother, Mark - who had almost been waiting for him (a signal of the Benson mole). The two have a brief gunfight, fist fight and leads with Mark making an escape via a gunship, who open fires on Travi in a last ditch attempt to kill him. The kid Gladius manages to escape the upper levels as it comes crashing down, members of his team rushing to assist as he tumbles back down the stairs. Chase emerges with the doctor, and they call for evac on the helicopter that had been waiting miles away.

Of course, looking back at this mission made me laugh at bit at how many holes exists in its plot, but it also got to me to thinking about how this cathedral can still be used and the elements of the entire section could make an excellent part to add into the overall story. Seeing as how the story goes from climax to conclusion WAY too quickly at present, it's possible that this cathedral - in its present state as a converted base of operations could be used once again as the team raids it in attempt to eliminate a high ranking officer in the Ultranationalist movement, or even to rescue another team that was captured during a mission.

If I plan to do this, I am wondering if its possible to add in the same elements as the original encounter. Have Travi embark on a solo journey to the upper levels, scuffle with the elder Gladius and then make a hasty escape while a gunship or other element torches the area. The team's evac chopper with Adele could be waiting in the wings, several miles away as to avoid detection. It's something to explore, and something I am looking at for later on down the line. If not though, I may look at options for reusing this locale and mission.

The other missions I looked at didn't have as much 'replay' value as the others, nor were they integral to the storyline. My only other archive exists with in the second draft in using a little known, but seemed to be rather influential mission that may be tweaked just a tad to interface well with the story. Originally in Miami, I'm thinking closer to the nerve stim of the United States.

Closing it down. Gute Nacht.

In summary

Over the last week, I've had a lot of ideas thought up, or proposed by my various friends (thanks all of you) and things are starting to mesh a bit better than before. All of a sudden, I'm excited at the prospect of writing again and hoping things may be a bit easier to put into thought and the pen onto the paper.

With that being said, I've decided to try and get a quick summary together for the tl;dr crowd that may or may not read these entries, of how things are progressing and maybe a glance at the future of this project.

• Referencing my "Ye old drawing board" entry, I had some revelations on a couple glaring issues that I feel may have been resolved now and will not longer bother me in the long run. This included: After mission two in the book, the team returns to an attack by the bad guys on their main HQ in an attempt to weaken SOCA and kill or capture (more likely kill) the doctors who have the means of stopping the bad guys plans. The attack has only a modicum of success as the SOCA teams are able to repel the attack and in the end, bring order to chaos.
• The main issues were: How did they get into the country without issue, and how did they escape? Given that Benson, the SOCA director, is ultimately the mole within the good guys - it can be argued that he got the clearance they needed. Given the locale of the SOCA base, it is highly possible that they entered through some means of ground transportation, with a private jet being the means of ingress into the country along with fake passports, cleared named etc. that would allow them to enter the country without issue. If they failed, an escape would be plausible by ground vehicles back to the private jet. With Benson's role, this would make much more sense and also give some insight into how resourceful the bad guys really are.
• Mass scale weapons, in essence - a weapon that would take some time to develop, which would consequently, give the good guys more time to act and stop it. In the interest of not drawing the story out, I'm going to go ahead and go out on the limb and say that the bad guys are busting ass and maybe get a working prototype within a month's time. I made another breakthrough with this when I started researching Nanotechnology (reference my post Nanotechs and other stuff).
• I am working on a few new missions that would occur after the turning point mission involving a near suicide act. Referenced an old, way old copy of the original draft and found a way to reuse those ideas. 
• Have been considering a new badguy, but Soviets are such nice story fodder.

Basically, this addresses several of the problems I had encountered initially in keeping things somewhat realistic while maintaining an aura of fiction. I may have some sort of draft soon, depending on how well these ideas with the rest of the story. I am however, liking where all this is going.

'Till next time.

Nanotechs and other stuff

So, a nanotech is a microscopic, one millionith of a millimeter long, tech piece that works on the molecular and atomic level. When dealing with it, according to a modicum of research I have done, it has been proposed for use in many medical situations when dealing with cancer of all types.

The article, found on Wikipedia (search for 'Nanotechnology'), also has notes it is a heavily regulated industry due to issues with toxicity and environmental issues, as well as various doomsday scenarios. That would lead me to think of some kind of weapon fashioned from this tech.
This seems to make the idea of a programmable nanotech all the more intriguing. I'm suddenly very excited at this possibility.

This is getting to be a major breakthrough, the only real issue now is how long it would take the bad guys to reverse engineer and make the tech into something harmful. That can be debated, but I think with the right wording and the fact the dude working on it helped develop it, plus whatever materials was recovered (can add to the opening chapter), or he already had in his possession furthers the cause.

All of a sudden, I'm very interested in writing again.
Till next time.

For great justice, take off every zig.

So far, I have managed to address a couple glaring issues that had bogged me down in the original writing, and that was some of the plot holes that would inevitably help the reader lose their place in the story. After a good tidbit of brainstorming over the last week, and some very helpful input from friends - I feel as though I may have made a small breakthrough.

I am moderately satisfied with the way that these gaping wounds have been sewn shut, and may lift some the veil of my eyes to allow me a bit more relaxation, instead of stress, when writing.
The first plot hole that arrives is how quick the Soviets (even considering a new bad guy for them at present) manage to turn the Alpha project into a virus: A record setting twelve days. Even in the world of fiction, that is way too quick. So, keeping with Tony's idea of building a weapon on a mass scale, you probably needs multiple weeks, or even months.

• Now, I scarce have enough material to work with to help cover months of a storyline without delving more into the intelligence and inner workings side of the agency. Doable, but it would seriously drag the pace of the story down. Skipping weeks in the plot can be used to get around this, but then a quick summary is usually needed to keep the reader up to date on what happened during that downtime in the story.This could potentially fix that issue, but the idea of filler material never really appealed to me. 

(Author note: Thank God for auto save, stupid BSOD). Where was I? Oh yeah, filler material. While some I think is socially acceptable anymore due to the rate of which pages expand a book's covers these days, it's easy to lose your audience in a sea of black ink when you spend ten pages describing what a wall looks like. Detail is fine, but overdoing - in my opinion, is not.
-So, I have a couple options with this: Either put breaks in the book and allow it weeks between events, which could work except for I'd have to figure out what the characters are doing during that time, and that includes all of them.
-Or, I'm sure I can manage if it only takes a month or so for them (Soviets) to figure out how the project works. In this argument, it can be made that the structure is already there, and that factors to be considered is that the doctor that ends up turning the project to evil purposes was once a top researcher on the project.
-I'm not sure which option I like just yet, as both have merit and while we have to maintain some measure of realism - I have to remember this is fiction and that some leniency is granted as such. But perhaps it is with the project itself: Seeing as how it is programmable, it is almost an inert object in itself. Lending to a bit of sci-fi, mayhap it could be just a programmable nanotech? Something that can be programmed to be anything, a cure or virus by giving it the properties of what is needed to be cured, or afflicted.

Alright, so now I'm to a nanotech - a programmable nanotech that can be made into a virus or cure. At first a cure, then a virus. Given the programmable nature, once the material is figured out, and a researcher has this material, it wouldn't take long - perhaps a month or so.

More progress made, and more to come later.

Auf Wiedersehen. 

Ye old drawing board

On the drive into work today, I had a couple new revelations on how I'm wanting to progress. As much as the outside the box thinking can help, I want apply that to my original storyline, if only because I am so attached to the plot, characters and the twists.
These few ideas came in the form of clearing some gaping holes in the plot. I still like the idea of mass scale weapons being developed, just as much as I enjoy how that story plays out.
After mission two in the book, the team returns to an attack by the bad guys. Okay, too many issues with it. So, I'm thinking Benson is involved more and moles are already in place. An explosion that only partly works, perhaps in haste it was not wired totally and therefore only delivered some of its payload. Then the Soviets that attack make like the terrorists from Air Force One. Fake passports, cleared names etc. That would make more sense, and given the surroundings of SOCA HQ, it could be plausible that they make an escape via some sort of escape route.
It can be assumed that these men would know what they are doing, and this would be very plausible and with Benson playing the role of mole anyhow, he would be instrumental in orchestrating the entire ordeal.
Moving onto another topic, the mass scale weapons. How long would the bad guys have to keep SOCA busy? We can go with at least few weeks if they were busting ass, so what are they doing in the meantime? Conventional attacks would be an answer, bombings, guerilla warfare and various attempts at disrupting the allied nations while they worked.
On that note, does Aramov continue with his deadline? And as time draws on, he grows agitated as things begin to unravel. Two attempts at killing the doctors and one at destroying SOCA as a whole. The attacks do not have to be widescale, nor do they have to be much outside of mentioned through news, or introductions to chapters - which can add to the urgency of the situation.
One thing that had me tied up was the amount of missions the team had, too few for one. After the suicide mission, they needed a couple more missions to take care of the intern while they kept the story crawling. I hate to write a book that is too short, but I also do not want to bore people to add a few pages to it.
So, I found an old copy of the original draft WAY back when. I remember one mission being at a converted monastery to rescue someone. In this instance, it could be to capture someone, or it could be a depository that they luckily stumble upon.
The other mission or two could stem from that information, in eliminating the chain of command (which I could establish) and allow that to lead up to the final attack.
Finally, some progress...
I'm liking these ideas, and it seems to be getting somewhere now. About damn time.
Au Revoir.

New ideas on the dead horse, part triage

Alright, after being up till damn near 5 this morning discussing ideas with a good friend - we're still far in left field, but may have something to work with. Of course, last I said that - I wound up going nowhere and had made no advancement in the progress. Second time's charm maybe? We shall see.

Evidently, part of my issue was not my lack of creativity, but rather my fear to expand into 'realms I've not been in'. Basically, not thinking outside the box like I said, and that was limiting my options. Mind numbing and exhausting looks outside this cube have led to a solid foundation that is unfortunately somewhere in left field or beyond. In fact, I'm pretty sure its not even in the ballpark - but its something I guess. 

According to my good friend, the realm of survival horror fiction in the line of Resident Evil is quite popular these days, and anything dealing with the walking dead is usually a surefire bet just because people are obsessed with the occult when it comes to Z-day. We all know we'd have to pretend we're not excited when the apocalypse does hit...just as long as we don't have to get with any Tanks, or Smokers...

So, moving onto the actual brain unload this morning before I fall back asleep (which I can't do because of work, damn rain...perfect sleeping weather), the idea has shifted now and we're looking at a COMPLETE overhaul of the original storyline. I'm not entirely sure how kosher I am with that idea, but this is what is being  thought on:

• A shift from global terrorism to local terrorism. We've wandered into the world of religious zealots, you know the ones who think that killing in the name of God is alright, and the ones who believe that by killing themselves and others (almost to the tune of Islam with Allah), they are making the world a better place. These religious zealots, led by a charismatic false prophet in the mold of Jim Jones ends up gathering a large following that are willing to do whatever he commands, for his words would supposedly be those of God. 
• Within the ranks of these zealots, they would be three separate divisions - although not as organized as an actual military, but dangerous as we've all seen idealists across seas. Fighting for your cause is enough to cause most people to turn VERY hostile and pose a significant threat. 
• The idea for three divisions comes with the fact that there will be three separate, but intertwining storylines by the main characters, each one in charge of dealing with a certain faction within the zealot ranks. SOCA Intelligence and Security Division would deal with one faction, SOCA Combat Division would deal with another, and SOCA Search and Rescue would deal with another. 
• These three divisions of the zealot army would dictate how their followers want to fight. Intelligence and Security would deal with-

You know, this idea really isn't catching my interest. Back to the old drawing board. This thinking outside the box thing is not working for me.

Au Revoir.  

New ideas on the dead horse part deux

Looking back at my current ideas that were posted in the last entry, a few of them tie into each other rather well and that may be the start of something new. Not sure if this is the start a new mold to work with, but time will tell I guess.

My intent now is to put together a believable storyline from this. Mass scale weapons, a project that would take some time (weeks, months etc.) to put together would allow the 'good guys' time to figure out the mystery of the story. In the original writing, the Alpha project is deciphered in record time, an impossible feat given it was twenty five years in the making. Conventional wisdom would say, it would take twenty five years for them to reset it and recode it. But given that no one is interested in twenty five years of garbage, something has to give.

At this impasse, I'm looking at something that may take a few months to work. Even a few weeks if we want to push the envelop: In the example of the original storyline - they took the alpha project and had it reverse engineered to begin the book. If I could expand that out and make it over the course of the book, culminating into the final showdown and make it so they have to race the clock to stop a genocide.

On the stopping the genocide, this is where the General Aramov having second thoughts idea comes in. Despite being a madman for the most part, I believe at that point - humanity/soldier in him would come forth and he could not bring himself to slaughter so many innocent people. He is then killed by subordinates, most likely Mark.

Speaking of Mark, since we're on the topic of him: His role in this entire ordeal. We know he's a genocidal, psychopathic, maniac that has no qualms about death. His presence in the story does cause a lot of stress and works on the psych of his kid brother, Travi. He is the epitome of a force truly evil, while Trav acts as the yang to his yin, the just and righteous side of the spectrum. He would have no second thoughts about killing Aramov, and would gladly launch the genocide against humanity without any regrets. A perfect bad guy, and the perfect way to climax a mass scaled weapon.

Now, the team in which that is opposed to all this is of course Travi's team within SOCA, but now that has me thinking about a lot of the organizational structure of the agency. When most people think agency, they think like CIA, FBI, NSA, ATF etc. In that mold of thinking, special forces are thrown out the window and we say hello to the Turks for instance. Keeping with that line of thought, we can look into partnerships between characters, such as Travi and Allison working together as field agents in a similar mold to the likes of Chris and Jill, Leon and Helena etc.

On the matter of SOCA, does it even still exist? Or do I think up a new one, or just return to real life counterparts? This is working my head a bit because I'm not sure what purpose SOCA would serve except as a private intelligence and investigation agency. Keeping with that, we know that the likes of Leon are Secret Service agents that are also dispatched on covert and top secret missions. How does this bleed together with my thought process and what I want to do? This is what is bugging me. And in that mold of thinking, they are less suited for out and out combat (though that can still be arranged), and the story would become a detective story. Besides, it's rarely ever field agents that go on to stop genocides, its the special forces. The agencies just put together the intelligence for the operation. This presents a problem.

So, if I go with the partnered teams - it would behoove me to look at smaller scale stuff like local troubles, or maybe at different storylines. Does it have to follow Travi exclusively? Hmm...

Okay, now we're at new territory of thinking in multiple storylines that may intersect intermediately. This would allow me use of the chapter nameplates more freely and also open the story up from the inside. The idea of multiple stories interacting with one another over the course of a main storyline has merits in that I can always use extra characters. In a cliched attempt, we're looking at three separate stories being told perhaps: One from a behind the scenes, intelligence protection agency, one from the frontlines, and one from the inside, like a resistance. But, that main question on all that, is of course: What are they intelling, fighting and resisting?

By the end of this entry, I have moved no further than I was before I started it. Oh well, back to the drawing board.
Au Revoir.

New ideas on the dead horse

Since I've been in a somewhat creative mood lately, I have ventured back into my novel writing persona and so far, had no luck in advancing my current writings. Therefore, I thought it was time to move on and see about getting some new, fresh ideas to work with. Devoted some serious time to brainstorming and are now all stored on a notepad file that I will be referencing and gathering from. New ideas happen all the time, and I'm hoping I can get some measure of success from it all.

From the threat of nuclear attack, to a college epic about two friends who strike out in life and love. Toss in the kitchen sink, and we have a book right? About a college epic of two friends who strikes out in life and love, who inadvertently stop the nuclear holocaust while fixing their kitchen sink in the mold of some comedy? That would be increasingly strange to write, let alone read - but given the amount of crap that becomes movies today, that may actually make the silver color screen of the theaters.

I digress, anyhow - the following is very rough and very skeptical at best. Input is always welcome, just keep it constructive. This is a direct copy and paste from a notepad file that I authored and is in its original, unedited form - which means: typos, grammar, stuff that makes no sense, and other mind boggling thoughts. I am not responsible for personal injury, including brain explosion, should these thoughts make your head combust. Without further ado:


-General Aramov has second thoughts?
This has some merit in that, at first - he is power crazed and maybe somewhat insane. As it stands right now, Mark just takes over after Aramov's plans fail. In this instance, Aramov's plans do not work and Mark kills him for incompetence and takes over the command. Mark is of course genocidal. At this point, Aramov begins thinking twice about total annihilation, leading to his demise. I like this idea because it would show that he is still human, and also show just how much of a monster Mark really is.
Verdict: Yes. I like the idea, and will keep it for now.

-Resident Evil type?
Trite, maybe overused? The idea of the zombie attack is feisable, yet not entirely sure how to make it work in the current plot. I doubt it could work, due to the fact that it would be a lot of work to transform the storyline over. Maybe read some of the Resident Evil books? I've yet to read anything on Resident Evil storylines and it seems like the 'black screens' in between levels on the games doesn't bleed much storyline. I really need to put some kind of book order in for those.
Verdict: As of right now, no. In the future, with a bit more research, sure.

-Narrowing team down to main characters?
This involves just maintaining characters, but the majority operate in the background. Only Travi and <insert name here> work together, as partners such as agents or field operatives similar to Leon and Helena, Jake and Sherry, Chris and Sheva, Chris and Jill etc. This would open a new dimension, and also cut down on side plot elements. I like this idea in that it would cut down on a lot of the BS story writing that is almost necessary. Narrowing it down to two characters working together, would allow me to expand into another area as far as chapters and nameplates.
Verdict: Yes. Good idea, and worth looking at.

-Chapters or nameplates?
Amazing what happens when I think. This would open up a new door in storytelling in that I could follow several characters instead of one with side splits. That would allow me to write for Travi, Mark and maybe even Allison and show how important all the characters are.
Verdict: Yes. It's worth a look in the future I think.

-Centralized bad guy?
I'm assuming I was thinking of a Wesker type here? I'm not entirely sure. I thought on this one and still have no clue what I was thinking here. Mark would be the centralized bad guy in most ways, so...yeah, not a clue.
Verdict: Probably not. I still have no idea what I was talking about here.

-Mark's role?
Obviously, a central character in that he serves as a primary antagonist and a source of distress for Travi. I like the way I made him out, and he's the perfect bad guy that has no sense of justice or conscious at all. He's the yang to Travi's yin, and that should continue to hold true. Mark is a force truly evil, while Travi is the epitome of justice and righteousness. The only main thing I thought about, was increasing the amount of encounters they are, but even the best bad guys work mainly behind the scenes.
Verdict: Yes, already is. He should remain as the main bad guy in whatever iteration I choose to write.

-Endwar type plot?
Has merit, but it would again involve a complete overhaul of the storyline and introduction of new plot elements. I like it in that it had the idea of a wild goose chase along with several new plot twists. It would allow me to expand more into Mark's storyline, but I doubt I could give him the same kind of personality as the Snow Maiden, even though she was an interesting character. May be time to re-read that book.
Verdict: Perhaps, but nothing definite.

-Allison still love interest?
Allison has transformed four times now as a central character. Started as Latasha, first with no military training, than she did not. Then she became Allison as a doctor with no training. Latasha was originally a love interest to Leon, then to Travi. Allison is Travi's childhood sweetheart at present, do I keep that? How much does she bring to the table? She serves as Travi's conscious on several instances, then she seems to be part of the glue that keeps him together during the tough times. His better half as they say. I think she adds an entirely new dimension to his character and also demonstrates that love in war is possible. I like Allison's character as she reminds me a lot of a perfect and ideal woman for myself. The added lead-up-to-sex scene that I put into the other draft really adds her into the realm of someone that wants the means of intimacy with someone she loves and cherishes.
Verdict: Yes. She will, by whatever I make her, remain his love interest. Even if she becomes a soldier again, they will still have a relationship in the mold of Chris and Jill. (Come on, you know those two are something when they're not killing zombies)

-Mass scale weapon?
Tony gave me this idea, in that its something takes a while to prep - giving the good guys a chance to be in position to stop it. This serves a good merit on any storyline in that it is feisable to maintain realism with this outlook while Travi and Co. wreck shop and figure out the mystery. I like this idea immensely because it would make a bit more sense than figuring out the secret of the main plotline within a couple weeks, no matter how skilled. This would also allow the team more time to plan and also open the door for the sideline stories.
Verdict: Yes, and will probably be something I look at heavily.

-Allison's role in relation to the story?
This mainly stems from my original question about her. She was a soldier at first, then nothing more than a researcher. So, does she maintain that profile? Or do I send her back through bootcamp? This one is weighing my mind heavily, due to her role being important in the story. Does her story need to be redone, or do I need to keep it and maybe it where she followed Travi into the military? A lot of possibilities. Daisy even offered up an idea that she could be Trav's partner in the storyline, and they could maintain their relationship from childhood. Maybe separated and reunited by events in the book with one of them being relocated to the others precient.
Verdict: Needs to be looked at for sure, and find out what exactly she is.

-Scratch Project Alpha?
This one is probably a last resort and that's just ditching the entire original storyline that involved the cure turned virus. This is due to my inability to fill the plot holes that are currently glaring. This option would just the ultimate fuck all, and start completely from scratch. The only other thing that could be stemmed from this is a virus that causes humanity to suffer in some massive way, like Resident Evil style.
Verdict: Last resort, but will if necessary.

-Plague Virus?
This ties into the Resident Evil thought. Probably not, unless I think of something that involves that genre in a similar manner. Rage zombies maybe? See above.
Usable: Maybe.

-Nuclear threat?
Again, trite and overused. Everyone and his grandfather has threatened the world with nukes before. But on that hand, nothing much more suspenseful or scary than the thought that a thousand nukes could drop on the main characters at any point. Worth a thought I guess. This may also help with the mass scale weapon idea, in that it would take some time to get that many missiles loaded and ready to attack.
Verdict: Yes, and will be useful as a fall back.

-Redo team, Agency or back to their RL counterparts?
SOCA? Or SEALs, Rangers etc. The only issue with this is that the team would be split because of their different branches. Bill and Trav would remain together due to both being SEALs.
Other than that, agents that work in pairs similar to above question of BSAA, RCPD, Jake and Sherry, Leon and Helena etc. This could also have some implications to a tie in with my reduced team theory and allow the other characters to work behind the scenes. I could see this happening in some measure.
Verdict: Yes, and may be useful in the way they would work.

-Different bad guys?
Soviets get a bad rap at times, and sometimes its better to move onto other bad guys. But let's face it, who are the usual suspects? Oh right, Soviets/Russians, Islamic extremists, or tree huggers. Take a pick.
Verdict: Investigation is required.

-Time Crisis storyline?
Has merit to tie in with the lowered character numbers, but doubtful it would have much as a story. Too much action, not enough dialogue - even if I was to take all of the Time Crisis games and link them together with their entire plots.
Verdict: Probably not.

-Going local?
Daisy offered this idea, in moving the story stateside and localizing the story. This would open up more areas of types of work the characters have. This has merit for sure.
Verdict: Yes, and something to look at.

There you have it. Inaugural entry complete, Au revoir.