Ch7p31
Taken from Talent Classification Proposal, by Parilla A. et al:
“Talent is the colloquial name for the mind-over-matter signs that have started manifesting in humankind for the past two centuries. These signs usually start manifesting in early youth and, like a muscle, can be trained with different degrees of usefulness. Approximately half of the population will exhibit Talent signs, but only one third of those will properly develop their skill. (…) Usage of [Telekinesis] in public is often considered a taboo subject in the Meditan Empire, and its development and training is not very sought after. However, a number of specific professions will rely on its application, which often results in training adults to become more proficient with their talent’s use.”
By the way, you can read the rest of the paper if you buy a digital copy from the Store!
Panel 1: Steffano, sitting in bed, comes closer to a standing Nikita and extends his right hand.
Steffano: Nikita, please. You can touch me.
Panel 2: Steffano's extended hand starts trembling the moment the shadow of Nikita's other hand comes in contact with it. He recoils.
Nikita (off panel): Sorry.
Panel 3: Steffano looks at the hand he just withrew, which is still shaking. He looks nervous and sweaty.
Steffano: Don't be, I asked for it.
Nikita (off panel): You're terrified.
Panel 4: Steffano releases a tired sigh.
Steffano: I have to get used to it.
Panel 5: Nikita sits on the edge of the bed as Steffano looks at him, calmer.
Steffano: Your talent is just as much a part of you as your hands, or your eyes. I don't want you to feel you have to hide it around me.
I love this! Open communication between the two and the whole, hey this is a scary thing. You rarely see that addressed unless it’s a thing where someone is ‘special’ for not being afraid. It’s been great to see how these two are trying for each other despite the difficulties. Relationships are work and you’ve really shown that over the past little bit from both Nikita and Steffano.
Thanks for the work,
Idan
Yeah, Nikita probably still expects to be seen as a freak when using his talent in a personal relationship. Also after using his other hands in combat and for war crimes he may be reluctant to touch Steffano in the same way…! 🤔
(Nice context in the intro above, and I approve of naked Steffano! 😘)
🥺 thank you for your kind words, Idan, I’m happy you’ve been having a good time!!!
I figured a moment of intimacy may be the best way to talk about something that doesn’t get addressed that much in the comic (how uncomfortable Talent is for Meditans in general)
Something especially lovely about this page. Ah, the intimacy! :]
Why are you makibg me care about a war criminal, dammit
Jack, war criminals are people too!!! (and that’s both a joke and also very serious)