The last chapter for the Squirrel is about to go up, and I'd like to say a few things:

First and foremost, Thank you from the bottom of my heart--seriously! This year, I have gotten so many really wonderful smails and comments that I can't put into words how fabulous it's made me feel.

As to the main question right now: "Will there be a Wayward 3?" I'm going to go ahead and say that "Lord willing and the creek don't rise" (with the drought in CA right now, it's unlikely), the answer to this is "Yes!"

I'm accepting all thoughts for venue, and, for those who fell in love with Tanaka, who was evidently one of those characters that you write and then give thanks for conjuring, he will be there, in one form or another. So we can keep the setting, play with it, turn it, whatever! Everything is very liquid right now.

I'm also pleased to announce that there won't be ANY pre-events. This was born from last year's critiques, and should have never seen the light of day! (EPIC fail on that aspect!) They solved none of the problems I was hoping would be solved, and left people more confused than anything, so that's getting stamped out of existence.

But---but---but what about those of us who wrote and wanted something to do beside sit around Squirrely's and just talk?

You're not neglected. In Chapter 13 itself, you will meet a weird little guy named Nutsy who is Squirrely's cousin. He'll speak for himself, but what is happening is that you all will be given an opportunity to become one of Nutsy's "investigators" in Nutsy Nefarious Nights

These "investigations" will take place in the Offtime Saloon, last only a few weeks each, can be done in a team or on your own, not relate to the main adventure at the Squirrel, and have smaller prizes. Each will be self-contained and each one is optional. Short mysteries will be the main thrust, but anything is welcome as an idea, and we also welcome guest writers, so for those of you who love to do something of your own for us, jump aboard.

NOTE: Joining Nutsy's ping group will not affect the Wayward Squirrel group in any way. Don't join unless you actually want to do things beyond the main adventure. Otherwise, hang out at Squirrely's for a casual drink or two and wait until the inn swirls back from the mists. :D

Now, I have a couple of judges that are going to address some stuff on behalf of my whole judging panel, so I think I'm going to need another post.....someone please make a comment while I grab another cup of coffee?

Posting